Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
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One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta: A Simple Twist on a Classic Favorite
Crispy chicken, savory marinara sauce, melted cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta—these are the building blocks of comfort food bliss.
With this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe, you’ll enjoy all the flavors of traditional chicken parmesan in a hassle-free, family-friendly dish.
This recipe came to life on a cold evening when I was craving a warm, hearty meal but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
It quickly became my go-to for busy weeknights and lazy weekends alike.
Let’s see why this dish deserves a place on your dinner menu!
Why This Recipe is a Winner
Chicken Parmesan Pasta takes the best parts of the classic Italian-American dish and reinvents them in an easy, one-pot meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Fast and Convenient: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for those nights when you’re short on time but still want a delicious, homemade meal.
- Minimal Cleanup: Forget the mountain of dishes—everything cooks in one pot, saving you time and effort after dinner.
- Loved by All: The familiar, comforting flavors appeal to kids and adults alike, and the recipe is easy to customize for adventurous eaters.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable, everyday ingredients, this dish is a cost-effective way to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen.
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight solution, this recipe checks all the boxes.
What You’ll Need
This dish relies on a handful of simple ingredients to deliver big flavor.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs are naturally juicy, while breasts are leaner and lighter.
- Pasta: Opt for short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini, which hold the sauce beautifully.
- Marinara Sauce: Choose a high-quality store-bought sauce or use your favorite homemade recipe for added depth.
- Cheese: A combination of mozzarella and parmesan gives this dish its signature cheesy finish.
- Breadcrumbs: A sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch reminiscent of the traditional dish.
You’ll also need basic kitchen tools, like a large skillet or Dutch oven. No fancy gadgets required!
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta
This one-pot meal is as easy to make as it is to devour. Follow these simple steps for a dinner that’s ready in no time:
- Prepare the Chicken
Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté the chicken until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. - Build the Sauce
In the same pan, add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in marinara sauce and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer. - Cook the Pasta
Add uncooked pasta to the skillet, making sure it’s fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and has soaked up the flavors of the sauce. - Combine and Top
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring it into the pasta and sauce. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top, and add breadcrumbs if desired for extra texture. - Finish and Serve
Cover the pan to melt the cheese, or pop it under the broiler for a golden, bubbly topping. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color, then serve hot.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh and tasty:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to three days. Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore the creamy texture.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in a sealed container for up to three months. Let thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
For the best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid overcooking.
Customization Ideas
This recipe is endlessly adaptable, making it easy to suit your taste or dietary needs:
- Switch the Protein: Substitute the chicken with ground turkey, sausage, or even shrimp for a fresh twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted eggplant.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Make it Spicy: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara for a little heat.
- Go Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish celiac-friendly.
Experiment with these variations to create a version that’s uniquely yours!
Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook until golden.
- Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for five minutes.
- Add uncooked pasta, cover, and cook until the pasta is tender.
- Mix the chicken back in, top with cheeses, and let the cheese melt.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Conclusion on Chicken Parmesan Pasta
With just one pot and 30 minutes, you can create a meal that combines the rich, comforting flavors of chicken parmesan with the ease of pasta night.
This dish is perfect for busy evenings, family gatherings, or even meal prep.
Once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!
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