Easy Chicken and Noodles Skillet Recipe for a Hearty One-Pan Dinner
When you want a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup, this Chicken and Noodles Skillet is the perfect solution. Tender chicken pieces simmered in a savory sauce with soft, buttery noodles create a satisfying dish everyone will love. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner that combines simplicity with delicious home-cooked taste.
This recipe is versatile, budget-friendly, and packed with protein and carbs to fuel your day — all cooked in a single skillet for convenience.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Chicken and Sauce
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
For the Noodles
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
- Total time: 35–40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Sauce Base
- Stir in butter until melted, then sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The sauce will begin to thicken.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles and Combine
- Add the egg noodles to the skillet, stirring to submerge them in the sauce.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for sopping up the delicious sauce.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright contrast.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 4 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein | 38 grams |
| Total Fat | 18 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 38 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugars | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 620 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Chicken provides high-quality lean protein essential for muscle repair and satiety.
- Egg noodles offer quick energy and a comforting texture.
- Milk and butter add creaminess and calcium for bone health.
- Homemade roux-based sauce controls sodium and additives compared to store-bought sauces.
Tips for Success
- Use wide egg noodles or pappardelle for the best texture and sauce absorption.
- To save time, cook chicken in batches for better browning.
- Stir the noodles frequently to prevent sticking.
- Leftovers reheat well and taste even better the next day.
Variations to Try
- Add mushrooms, peas, or spinach for extra vegetables and nutrients.
- Swap chicken thighs for turkey or pork for a different flavor.
- Use gluten-free noodles for dietary needs.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.
This Chicken and Noodles Skillet recipe is a versatile, easy-to-make meal that combines hearty protein and comforting pasta in one pot. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want home-cooked flavor without the fuss. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and soft noodles, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite.
