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### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
1. **Season the chicken:** Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme (or Italian seasoning). Rub the seasoning into the chicken to ensure it’s well coated.
2. **Cook the chicken:** Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
#### Step 2: Make the Creamy Noodles
1. **Cook the noodles:** In the same skillet (without washing it), add a bit more oil if needed and bring the heat to medium-high. Add the uncooked egg noodles and sauté for about 1-2 minutes to lightly toast them in the pan.
2. **Add the garlic:** Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. **Add the broth and cream:** Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and release any flavorful brown bits stuck to the skillet. Then add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture come to a simmer, then lower the heat to medium-low and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
4. **Stir in the butter and parmesan:** Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the butter and grated parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and the butter melts. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want the sauce creamier, add a little extra butter or cream.
#### Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Noodles
1. **Slice the chicken:** While the noodles are cooking, slice the cooked chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
2. **Combine everything:** Once the noodles are done and the sauce is creamy, return the sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the chicken in the creamy sauce and noodles. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through.
#### Step 4: Serve and Garnish
1. **Garnish (optional):** Serve the one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles hot, and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
2. **Enjoy:** Enjoy this rich and creamy dish on its own or pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
### Tips and Variations:
– **Vegetable Add-ins:** For extra nutrition, add vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli to the pan when you add the garlic, sautéing them until they’re tender before adding the liquids for the noodles.
– **Cheese:** If you want to elevate the flavor, you can add other types of cheese like mozzarella or goat cheese to the creamy sauce.
– **Lighter Version:** You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even use a dairy-free cream substitute to lighten up the dish.
– **Herb Variations:** Fresh herbs like basil or rosemary can add a burst of flavor to this dish. You can sprinkle them over the top right before serving for extra fragrance and color.
### Healthier Alternatives:
– **Whole Wheat Noodles:** Use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles for a healthier, high-fiber alternative.
– **Lean Protein:** Switch the chicken for turkey breast or lean pork tenderloin if you’re looking for a different source of protein.
### Final Thoughts:
This One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles recipe is the epitome of a cozy, comforting meal that doesn’t require hours of prep or cleanup. With its rich, creamy sauce, perfectly cooked chicken, and tender noodles, it’s the kind of meal that will satisfy your cravings without taking up too much of your time. Plus, its versatility means you can add in your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to make it your own. Enjoy this delicious dish with your loved ones for a weeknight win!
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