If you’re craving the flavors of chicken Parmesan but don’t want the hassle of multiple dishes, One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the perfect solution! This easy, comforting meal combines tender chicken, pasta, and marinara sauce, all cooked together and topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a hearty meal without the fuss. Let’s dig into this quick and delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the sauce.
- Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Cheese
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir it into the pasta.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Tips
- Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken.
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for provolone or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
- Avoid Sticking: Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Extra Crispy Topping: Broil the dish for 2-3 minutes to create a golden, bubbly cheese crust.
Nutrition Details
Per Serving (Approximate, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 400
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 32g
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Short pasta like rotini, rigatoni, or farfalle works well. Adjust cooking times if needed.
What marinara sauce works best?
Use your favorite store-bought marinara or homemade sauce for this recipe. For added depth, try a roasted garlic or basil-infused sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the dish, refrigerate it, and reheat it later. Add a bit of broth when reheating to maintain the creamy consistency.
What pairs well with this dish?
Garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables make excellent side dishes for this hearty meal.
