Skillet & One-Pan

Skillet Chicken And Noodles

Name: Skillet Chicken And Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 8 oz (225g) noodles; 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp (5g) dried thyme; 1 tsp (5g) paprika; 1/2 tsp (2g) salt; 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper; 2 cups (475ml) chicken broth; 2 tbsp (30g) butter; 1 cup (120g) grated cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsley

By Otto Larkin · June 19, 2026 · Skillet & One-Pan

Prep15 min

Cook25 min

Total40 min

Serves4

I'm always on the lookout for easy, family-friendly chicken dinners that can be made from scratch in my own home kitchen. One of my favorite go-to recipes is Skillet Chicken And Noodles, a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner.

This recipe is special because it's incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. The best part is that it's a one-pan wonder, meaning you can cook the chicken, noodles, and sauce all in one skillet. This not only makes cleanup a breeze but also ensures that all the flavors meld together perfectly.

I love making this recipe for my family because it's a crowd-pleaser. The combination of juicy chicken, flavorful noodles, and a rich sauce is a winner with both kids and adults. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover chicken or vegetables you have on hand.

Whether you're a busy parent looking for a quick and easy dinner solution or a home cook who wants to impress your family with a delicious meal, Skillet Chicken And Noodles is the perfect recipe for you. So, let's get started and see how to make this amazing dish!

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of chicken breasts, noodles, and a variety of spices and herbs to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. We'll also be using some common pantry staples like olive oil, butter, and chicken broth to add depth and richness to the dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
It's a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze.
The combination of juicy chicken, flavorful noodles, and a rich sauce is a winner with both kids and adults.
It's a great way to use up any leftover chicken or vegetables you have on hand.
The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to add your own favorite spices and herbs.
It's a perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a special occasion.
The leftovers are just as delicious as the original meal.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe is the way the chicken is cooked. By searing the chicken in a hot skillet, we're able to create a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. This is because the high heat helps to lock in the moisture, resulting in a more flavorful and tender piece of chicken.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of layers of seasoning. By seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs before cooking, and then adding more seasoning to the noodles and sauce, we're able to create a deep and complex flavor profile that's sure to impress.

The noodles also play a crucial role in this recipe. By cooking them in the same skillet as the chicken and sauce, we're able to infuse them with all the flavors and juices, resulting in a delicious and satisfying side dish.

Finally, the sauce is what brings everything together. By using a combination of chicken broth, butter, and herbs, we're able to create a rich and creamy sauce that complements the chicken and noodles perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Skillet Chicken And Noodles, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. You'll need a combination of chicken breasts, noodles, and a variety of spices and herbs to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Be sure to choose high-quality ingredients, such as fresh vegetables and lean protein, to ensure the best flavor and texture. You can also customize the recipe to your liking by adding your own favorite spices and herbs.

1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, boneless and skinlessChoose fresh and lean chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer.
8 oz (225g) noodlesChoose a type of noodle that holds its shape well, such as egg noodles or penne. Avoid using thin or delicate noodles that may break apart during cooking.
2 tbsp (30g) olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor. You can also use other oils, such as avocado or grapeseed, if you prefer.
1 onion, choppedChoose a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Maui, for the best flavor. You can also use shallots or scallions if you prefer.
2 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use garlic powder or garlic salt if you prefer.
1 tsp (5g) dried thymeChoose fresh or dried thyme for the best flavor. You can also use other herbs, such as rosemary or parsley, if you prefer.
1 tsp (5g) paprikaUse sweet or smoked paprika for the best flavor. You can also use other spices, such as cumin or coriander, if you prefer.
1/2 tsp (2g) saltUse kosher or sea salt for the best flavor. You can also use other types of salt, such as table salt or Himalayan pink salt, if you prefer.
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. You can also use other types of pepper, such as white or green peppercorns, if you prefer.
2 cups (475ml) chicken brothChoose a low-sodium chicken broth for the best flavor. You can also use homemade broth or stock if you prefer.
2 tbsp (30g) butterUse high-quality butter for the best flavor. You can also use other types of fat, such as oil or margarine, if you prefer.
1 cup (120g) grated cheddar cheeseChoose a high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. You can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, if you prefer.
2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsleyUse fresh parsley for the best flavor. You can also use other herbs, such as basil or cilantro, if you prefer.

Ingredients for Skillet Chicken And Noodles

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatulaColander or strainer

How to Make Skillet Chicken And Noodles

1
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2
Add the chopped onion and cook until it's translucent and starting to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes.
3
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until they're browned on both sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
6
Add the noodles to the skillet and cook until they're tender, about 8-10 minutes.
7
Add the chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
8
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the liquid has reduced slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
9
Stir in the butter until it's melted and the sauce is smooth.
10
Add the grated cheddar cheese to the skillet and stir until it's melted and the sauce is creamy.
11
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine with the noodles and sauce.
12
Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the chicken is coated in the sauce and the noodles are heated through.
13
Stir in the chopped parsley and serve hot.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Don't overcook the chicken or noodles, as they can become tough and dry.
Add the cheese to the skillet in the last minute of cooking, as it can melt and become creamy.
Use a variety of spices and herbs to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Don't be afraid to experiment and add your own favorite ingredients to the recipe.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, as it will help the flavors to meld together.
Use a large skillet or wok to cook the dish, as it will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the noodles from becoming tangled.
Don't overcrowd the skillet, as it can prevent the chicken and noodles from cooking evenly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken or noodles, resulting in a tough and dry texture.
Not using high-quality ingredients, resulting in a lackluster flavor and texture.
Not adding enough seasoning, resulting in a bland and unappetizing dish.
Not stirring the sauce enough, resulting in a lumpy and uneven texture.
Not letting the dish rest before serving, resulting in a lack of flavor and texture.
Not using a large enough skillet, resulting in overcrowding and uneven cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the skillet with the onion and garlic for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, for a unique flavor and texture.
Add some cooked bacon or ham to the skillet for a smoky and savory flavor.
Use different types of noodles, such as egg noodles or penne, for a unique texture and flavor.
Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as basil or cilantro, to the skillet for a bright and refreshing flavor.
Use a different type of protein, such as shrimp or tofu, for a unique and exciting twist on the recipe.
Add some diced tomatoes or tomato sauce to the skillet for a burst of juicy flavor and moisture.

What to Serve With Skillet Chicken And Noodles

Serve the Skillet Chicken And Noodles hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated cheese if desired.

This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and can be served with a variety of sides, such as a green salad or roasted vegetables.

Serve with a green saladServe with roasted vegetablesServe with a side of garlic breadServe with a side of fruit or cheese and crackers

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent drying out.

You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months, thawing and reheating as needed.

To freeze, cool the dish to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Label and date the container, and store it in the freezer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of noodles should I use for this recipe?

You can use a variety of noodles, such as egg noodles, penne, or even rice noodles. Just be sure to choose a type that holds its shape well and can withstand the cooking time.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can use a variety of cheeses, such as mozzarella, parmesan, or even feta. Just be sure to choose a type that melts well and has a flavor that complements the dish.

How do I prevent the noodles from becoming tangled?

To prevent the noodles from becoming tangled, be sure to stir them frequently while they're cooking, and don't overcrowd the skillet. You can also try adding a small amount of oil or butter to the noodles to help them cook more smoothly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving, and add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent drying out.

What are some variations I can try?

There are many variations you can try, such as adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms, using different types of cheese, or adding cooked bacon or ham. You can also try using different types of noodles or adding some chopped fresh herbs for added flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

To ensure that the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for cooked chicken. You can also check the chicken by cutting into it and making sure that the juices run clear.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use leftover chicken for this recipe. Just be sure to shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the skillet with the noodles and sauce.

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers, cool the dish to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months, thawing and reheating as needed.

The Full Recipe

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