This one-pan creamy garlic butter chicken has earned its spot as my most requested weeknight dinner recipe! I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve made this comforting dish. Don’t let the simple ingredient list fool you – this meal is packed with rich garlic butter flavor, tender seared chicken, and the creamiest egg noodles that cook right in the same pan.

Another reason it’s a family favorite – everything cooks in one skillet! No need for multiple pots or complicated steps. And my favorite tip from readers – this creamy garlic butter chicken tastes even better the next day as leftovers!

Jessica commented: “Absolutely love this recipe! The one-pan method is genius and the flavor is restaurant-quality ❤️. This has become our weekly dinner staple.” ★★★★★

This recipe all started when I was looking for a way to make a complete dinner in just one pan. I wanted something creamy, comforting, and satisfying without the cleanup nightmare. Turns out, this garlic butter chicken with egg noodles became so popular that I make it at least twice a month! Even my pickiest eater asks for seconds.

Over the years, I haven’t changed much about this original recipe. The technique of searing the chicken first, then cooking the noodles in the creamy sauce creates the most incredible flavors. While it looks fancy enough for company, it’s simple enough for busy weeknights!

⭐ This dish has become such a staple that I’ve adapted it for different dietary needs – you can easily swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or use gluten-free noodles without losing any of that amazing flavor.

Easy Step-By-Step

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then sear in olive oil until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

The key here is getting a good sear on the chicken – this creates incredible flavor that infuses the entire dish. Don’t move the chicken too early; let it develop that beautiful golden crust.

In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic, then add broth, cream, and noodles. Let everything simmer together until the noodles are tender.

Don’t skip using the same pan! All those delicious browned bits from the chicken will flavor your creamy garlic butter sauce beautifully.

Return the chicken to the pan and let everything come together for the final few minutes.

This one-pan chicken dinner has brought me so much joy over the years – and it’s all because it makes weeknight cooking actually enjoyable! Let me know in the comments how yours turns out! 🧡

ONE-PAN CREAMY GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN WITH EGG NOODLES

Cuisine: American
Category: Main Dish
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4 people

INGREDIENTS

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Sauce & Noodles:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz egg noodles
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Sear the Chicken:

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
• Sear for 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown with a crisp outer layer. Remove and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce & Noodles:

• In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter.
• Sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well.
• Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the egg noodles. Cover and let them cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Thicken & Combine:

• If the sauce is too thin, mix cornstarch with water and stir it in to thicken.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese and black pepper, ensuring a creamy consistency.
• Return the seared chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over it. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavors.

4. Serve & Garnish:

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a touch of black pepper.
• Serve warm with extra Parmesan on the side.

Tips for Perfect Results

Get a good sear on the chicken – this is crucial for flavor! Don’t move the chicken too early; let it develop that beautiful golden crust that makes this garlic butter chicken so delicious.

Use the same pan for everything – those browned bits from the chicken create incredible flavor in your creamy garlic butter sauce.

Don’t overcook the noodles – they’ll continue cooking in the sauce, so aim for just tender when you add the chicken back.

Make It Your Own

Protein variations – Try this with chicken thighs, shrimp, or even salmon for different flavors while keeping the same one-pan method.

Vegetable additions – Toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli during the last few minutes for extra nutrition in your creamy chicken and noodles.

Lighter version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or add some chicken broth to thin it out while maintaining that garlic butter flavor.

Storage Tips

This one-pan creamy garlic butter chicken keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles will absorb more sauce as it sits, but it reheats beautifully with a splash of chicken broth.

Reheating tip: Add a little extra broth or cream when reheating to restore that perfect creamy consistency!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use different noodles?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or even rice would work great in this creamy garlic butter chicken. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?

Keep the heat at medium or lower once you add the cream, and don’t let it boil vigorously. This keeps your garlic butter sauce smooth and creamy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

The chicken can be seared ahead, but the noodles are best cooked fresh. This one-pan chicken dinner is really designed to be made and enjoyed right away.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

Half-and-half works, though it won’t be quite as rich. You can also use milk with a tablespoon of flour whisked in for thickening.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Use a very large skillet or cook in batches. The creamy chicken and noodles recipe scales up perfectly for feeding a crowd.

This one-pan creamy garlic butter chicken with egg noodles has become the hero of our weeknight dinner rotation. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen genius while actually being incredibly simple to execute!

The combination of perfectly seared chicken with creamy, garlic-infused noodles creates comfort food that satisfies everyone at the table. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about making a complete, restaurant-quality meal in just one pan.

I’d love to see your one-pan chicken dinner creations! Share your photos on my Facebook page and don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest @OlyviaBestRecipes for those busy weeknights when you need dinner magic!