One Pan Chicken Noodles: Quick and Easy Weeknight Recipe

One pan chicken noodles are a simple, all-in-one meal where chicken, noodles, vegetables, and sauce cook together in a single skillet. This method saves time, reduces dishes, and delivers a savory, comforting dish packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy evenings or when you want a quick, satisfying dinner without the hassle.

I discovered this recipe during a hectic week when I needed something fast yet delicious. It’s now a go-to in my kitchen, and my family loves the savory sauce and tender noodles!

Why You’ll Love One Pan Chicken Noodles

This dish is a weeknight hero because it:

Cooks in one skillet, minimizing cleanup
Takes under 30 minutes from start to finish
Balances protein, carbs, and veggies for a complete meal
Is endlessly customizable with your favorite ingredients

Ingredients for One Pan Chicken Noodles

For 4 servings, you’ll need:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
8 oz noodles (spaghetti, linguine, or egg noodles work well)
1 cup sliced bell peppers (red or yellow for color)
1 cup broccoli florets
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for depth)
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water for slurry)
1 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Pro Tip: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness, especially if adding oyster sauce.

Choosing the Best Ingredients

Chicken

Boneless thighs are juicier and more forgiving than breasts.
Breasts work for a leaner option but cook faster, so watch closely.
Cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Noodles

Spaghetti or linguine holds up well in the sauce.
Egg noodles add a chewy, comforting texture.
Avoid delicate noodles like angel hair—they can get mushy.

Vegetables

Use fresh veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for crunch.
Frozen veggies work in a pinch; just thaw and pat dry to avoid excess water.

Step-by-Step: How to Make One Pan Chicken Noodles

Follow these steps for a quick, flavorful one pan chicken noodles dish.

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Slice chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
Chop vegetables and mince garlic.
Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken broth in a small bowl.

Why It Works: Prepping everything upfront makes cooking fast and seamless.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Remove chicken and set aside.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed for a nice sear.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add another tbsp of vegetable oil to the skillet.
Sauté onions, garlic, bell peppers, and broccoli for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
Push veggies to one side of the pan.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Add noodles to the skillet with chicken broth and sauce mixture.
Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes until noodles are tender, stirring occasionally.
Add cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.

I once forgot to stir the noodles, and they stuck to the pan—keep them moving for even cooking!

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return chicken to the skillet and toss with noodles and veggies.
Drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle with chili flakes for a kick.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Alternative: For extra flavor, add a splash of lime juice or a handful of fresh cilantro.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve immediately in bowls for a cozy, satisfying meal.
Pair with a side of cucumber salad or spring rolls for a complete dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like one pan chicken noodles, small errors can happen. Here’s how to avoid them:

Overcooking the noodles: Check them early to prevent mushiness.
Using too much liquid: Stick to the recipe’s broth amount to avoid a soupy dish.
Skipping the sear: Browning the chicken adds depth—don’t rush this step.
Overcrowding the pan: This steams the ingredients instead of sautéing them.

Expert Tips for the Best One Pan Chicken Noodles

Toast the noodles: For extra flavor, lightly toast dry noodles in the skillet before adding broth.
Customize the heat: Add sriracha or fresh chilies for a spicy kick, or keep it mild for kids.
Use a large skillet: A 12-inch skillet gives enough room for even cooking.
Prep ahead: Chop veggies and chicken the night before to save time.

I made this for a busy weeknight dinner, and my picky eater loved the mild, savory sauce. Adding extra broccoli made it a hit with the whole family!

Creative Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun twists:

Spicy Peanut Noodles: Add 2 tbsp peanut butter to the sauce for a creamy, nutty flavor.
Teriyaki Twist: Swap soy sauce for teriyaki sauce and add pineapple chunks.
Veggie-Packed: Toss in zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood version—cook for 2–3 minutes per side.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

One pan chicken noodles are a complete meal, but these pairings elevate the experience:

Sides:
- Cucumber salad with sesame dressing
- Crispy spring rolls or dumplings
- Steamed edamame with sea salt
Drinks:
- Iced green tea for a refreshing contrast
- Sparkling water with lemon for a light touch
- Light beer for a casual vibe
Presentation: Serve in colorful bowls with chopsticks for an authentic, fun feel.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave for 1–2 minutes if in a rush, but stir halfway.
Freezing: Freeze in single portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs About One Pan Chicken Noodles

Can I use different noodles for one pan chicken noodles?
Yes, spaghetti, linguine, or egg noodles work great. Avoid delicate noodles like rice vermicelli, as they can get mushy.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap chicken for tofu or extra veggies like mushrooms and zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I prevent the noodles from sticking?
Stir frequently while cooking, and ensure there’s enough liquid in the pan. A non-stick skillet helps, too.
Can I prep one pan chicken noodles ahead of time?
Yes, chop veggies and chicken up to a day in advance. Store separately in the fridge and cook fresh for the best texture.
What’s the best pan for this recipe?
A 12-inch skillet or wok is ideal. It gives enough space for all ingredients to cook evenly without overcrowding.

Final Thoughts

One pan chicken noodles are the ultimate weeknight dinner—quick, flavorful, and easy to clean up. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this versatile dish delivers comfort and taste in every bite.

Try it tonight, and explore our quick dinner recipes for more time-saving ideas. What’s your favorite noodle dish? Share in the comments!