One-Pan Creamy Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe

Looking for a comforting dish that’s quick, delicious, and perfect for any night of the week? This one-pan creamy chicken with egg noodles recipe will hit the spot.

It’s packed with tender chicken, soft noodles, and a luscious, creamy sauce that comes together in no time. Whether you're cooking for a busy family or just craving comfort food, this recipe is your go-to solution.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Every home cook needs a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish in their arsenal. Here’s why this recipe is bound to become your favorite:

Quick and Simple: Just one pan and 30 minutes are all you need. Minimal cleanup means more time to relax.
Hearty and Comforting: A perfect blend of creamy sauce, tender noodles, and juicy chicken that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices to tailor it to your taste.

Now, let's get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need for this one-pan creamy chicken with egg noodles recipe:

For the Main Dish:

1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
8 oz (225g) egg noodles
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

Veggies: Mushrooms, peas, spinach, or carrots work beautifully.
Herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil or butter in a large, deep skillet or pan over medium heat.
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika, ensuring an even coat.
Add the chicken to the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Remove from the pan and set them aside. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Using the same pan, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
If you’re adding mushrooms or other hearty vegetables, toss them in now and cook until softened.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze it and incorporate all the flavorful bits.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add the Noodles and Chicken

Stir in the dry egg noodles, ensuring they are fully submerged in the liquid.
Return the seared chicken to the pan, arranging it over the noodles. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and cook for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Stir and Finish with Parmesan

After 10 minutes, remove the lid and stir. The noodles should be tender, and the liquid mostly absorbed.
Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve warm and enjoy the hearty, creamy goodness!

Tips for Success

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear the chicken in batches if necessary to get a nice golden crust.
Test Noodle Doneness: Egg noodles cook quickly, so check them for tenderness before serving.
Double the Recipe: Cooking for a crowd? This recipe scales effortlessly.

Variations to Try

Switch things up to keep this dish exciting:

Herby Garlic Twist: Add more garlic and toss in a handful of fresh basil for an aromatic kick.
Lightened-Up Version: Use milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan slightly for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Swap: Skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables or plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian version.

Why Egg Noodles Work Best for this Recipe

Egg noodles are the star of this dish for a reason. Their slightly chewy texture perfectly absorbs the creamy sauce while remaining sturdy, creating a great mouthfeel. Unlike regular noodles, their rich taste complements the creamy chicken sauce beautifully.

Pair This Dish with…

Enhance your meal with these fantastic pairings:

Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
Side Salad: A simple arugula or spinach salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.
White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully.

Wrap Up

This one-pan creamy chicken with egg noodles recipe is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s flavorful, versatile, and perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners. Plus, it’s a dish that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

If you’ve tried this recipe, we’d love to hear your feedback! Comment below or share your creation with us on social media by tagging us.

Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!