Pin This one-pot creamy chicken noodle skillet has become my weeknight dinner hero when I need something comforting, satisfying, and incredibly simple to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, silky egg noodles, and sweet peas swimming in a velvety sauce creates the ultimate comfort food that comes together in just one pan.
I first created this recipe during a particularly chaotic week when I needed something that would please everyone at the table without keeping me in the kitchen for hours. It was such a hit that it's now in our regular rotation, and my family cheers whenever they see me pulling out the ingredients.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: the star protein that stays juicy and tender when cut into bite sized pieces
- Yellow onion: creates a sweet aromatic base for the entire dish and adds depth
- Garlic cloves: fresh minced garlic provides essential flavor that dried simply cannot match
- Frozen peas: adds color, sweetness, and nutrition that balances the richness
- Wide egg noodles: their texture holds up well and they absorb flavors beautifully
- Unsalted butter: creates a rich foundation and helps brown the chicken
- Heavy cream: transforms the sauce into something luxurious without being overwhelming
- Parmesan cheese: adds nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce naturally
- Low sodium chicken broth: provides flavor while allowing you to control salt levels
- Dried thyme: offers earthy notes that complement chicken perfectly
- Paprika: adds subtle color and a gentle warmth to the dish
- Fresh parsley: optional but adds brightness and color as a finishing touch
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken:
- Heat your large skillet over medium high heat and melt the butter until it begins to foam but not brown. Add your chicken pieces in a single layer giving them space to properly brown. Cook for about 5 minutes until they develop a golden crust. The chicken doesn't need to be fully cooked through at this point as it will finish cooking later. Remove to a plate and set aside.
- Build the Flavor Base:
- Add the finely chopped onion to the same pan with all those delicious chicken bits still in there. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become translucent and slightly soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more until you can smell its fragrance. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will become bitter.
- Create the Cooking Liquid:
- Pour the chicken broth into the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This process called deglazing is crucial for building depth of flavor. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil before moving to the next step.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Add the egg noodles directly to the broth along with the thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure the noodles are mostly submerged in the liquid. They'll cook directly in the broth, absorbing all that wonderful flavor. Reduce the heat to medium low, cover the pan, and let simmer for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Combine Everything:
- Return the partially cooked chicken and any accumulated juices to the pan this adds even more flavor back into the dish. Add the frozen peas they'll cook quickly in the hot liquid. Continue cooking uncovered for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking, until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Create the Creamy Finish:
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the mixture to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. The sauce will thicken slightly and become silky smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed adding more salt or pepper according to your preference.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if using. The bright green color and fresh flavor provide a nice contrast to the creamy richness of the dish. Serve immediately while hot.
Pin My absolute favorite part of this recipe is how the egg noodles cook directly in the broth, absorbing all that wonderful flavor while simultaneously releasing starches that help create the perfect sauce consistency. I've made this countless times when friends drop by unexpectedly, and it never fails to impress despite being so simple to prepare.
Storage and Reheating
This creamy chicken noodle skillet stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles will absorb some of the sauce overnight, making it thicker when cold. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce back to its original creamy consistency. Warm gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop or in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each interval. Avoid high heat which can cause the cream to separate.
Smart Substitutions
This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. Boneless chicken thighs can replace chicken breasts for even more flavor and moisture. No egg noodles? Regular pasta shapes like fusilli or penne work well too, though cooking times may need adjustment. For a lighter version, swap half the cream with additional chicken broth and reduce the Parmesan by half. Plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and nutritional yeast can create a dairy-free version that still maintains creaminess.
Seasonal Adaptations
Spring Version Add fresh asparagus tips and substitute tarragon for thyme Summer Variation Include halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil at the end Fall Twist Add diced butternut squash and sage instead of thyme Winter Comfort Add sliced mushrooms and a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce
Make It a Meal
This one-pot wonder stands perfectly on its own as a complete meal, but if you're looking to round out the dinner table, consider these simple accompaniments. A crisp green salad dressed with a bright vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy main dish. Crusty artisan bread or simple garlic toast makes an excellent vehicle for sopping up any remaining sauce. For a special occasion, start with a light soup like tomato bisque or end with a fruit-based dessert to balance the meal.
Pin This recipe is a weeknight savior, offering a complete and comforting meal with minimal fuss. Enjoy this creamy chicken noodle skillet!
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I know when the noodles are cooked?
The noodles are ready when they've absorbed most of the liquid and are tender to bite, usually after 8-12 minutes simmering.
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute other short pasta shapes like rotini or penne, adjusting the cook time as needed for desired tenderness.
- → What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can replace heavy cream for a lighter texture, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.
- → Is it possible to make this dish ahead?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it ahead and gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
- → How can I make this meal more nutritious?
Swap in whole wheat noodles, add extra vegetables like spinach or carrots, or use less cream for a lighter version.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables make excellent accompaniments. Try with crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.