One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Description:
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food made simple! Tender bite-sized pieces of chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melt-in-your-mouth cheeses are combined with pasta, all cooked together in one pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish gives you the classic Chicken Parmesan experience without the fuss of frying. The blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses adds that perfect creamy, cheesy finish, making this meal a family favorite.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked through, and then remove from the skillet.
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Flavor the Base: In the same skillet, add minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
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Simmer the Pasta: Stir in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, and uncooked pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
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Finish the Dish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, allowing them to melt and create a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed with more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning.
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Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy!
Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Chicken Parmesan: Add more red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the pasta for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Lovers’ Pasta: Use a combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and provolone cheeses for a creamy and cheesy flavor.
- Healthy Twist: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta and swap the chicken broth for low-sodium broth to make this recipe lighter.
- Chicken Alfredo Parmesan: For a creamier texture, add 1/4 cup heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce.
Serving Tips:
- Garlic Bread: Serve this dish with crispy garlic bread or a slice of toasted baguette to soak up the extra sauce.
- Side Salad: A simple side salad with a balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta perfectly.
- Extra Cheese: Top with additional Parmesan or mozzarella for even more cheesy goodness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, for a balanced meal.
- Wine Pairing: Pair with a glass of red wine, like a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Chianti, to enhance the flavors of the dish.
20 FAQs:
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Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the sauce. -
What type of pasta should I use?
You can use any type of short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli. Long pasta like spaghetti also works, but may require slightly more cooking time. -
Can I use jarred marinara sauce?
Yes, jarred marinara sauce works just fine! For extra flavor, add some garlic, onion powder, or herbs to enhance it. -
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. -
Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the skillet when you sauté the garlic. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. -
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish once it’s cooked. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. -
How do I reheat frozen leftovers?
To reheat frozen leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop with a little extra chicken broth to loosen the sauce. -
What kind of chicken should I use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, but you can also use thighs for a juicier dish. -
Can I use shredded chicken instead of cubed chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds more flavor. -
Can I add cream to the sauce?
Yes, adding 1/4 cup of heavy cream will give the sauce a richer, creamier texture. -
What if the pasta is not cooked through?
Add a little more broth and cook for a few additional minutes until the pasta is tender. -
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and pasta mixture in advance, then bake or heat it up just before serving. -
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook the chicken and pasta on low for about 4 hours. Add the cheese in the last 10 minutes. -
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If the sauce is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it. -
Can I use other cheeses?
Yes! Provolone, ricotta, or even goat cheese would be delicious in this dish. -
How do I make the dish spicier?
Increase the red pepper flakes, add a dash of hot sauce, or even mix in some chopped jalapeños for extra heat. -
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian version of this dish. -
Can I use a different type of seasoning?
Yes, feel free to swap the Italian seasoning for herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme. -
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger skillet or cooking pot to accommodate the larger portion.
20 Best Tips to Make It:
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking and consistent texture.
- Don’t skip the simmering step – this helps the pasta absorb all the flavors.
- Stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to ensure it doesn’t stick.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and meltability.
- Let the pasta sit for a few minutes after cooking to thicken up and absorb the sauce.
- Cook the chicken in batches if your skillet is too small to avoid overcrowding.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
- Add a pinch of sugar to the sauce if it’s too tangy from the tomatoes.
- Add extra garlic for a more robust flavor profile.
- For extra crispy chicken, sear the chicken in batches before adding the garlic and seasoning.
- Try adding fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinara sauce for extra flavor.
- Ensure the pasta is completely submerged in the broth so it cooks evenly.
- Use a lid while simmering to keep the moisture in and help the pasta cook faster.
- Use a deep skillet or Dutch oven for a larger batch, especially when doubling the recipe.
- For an extra cheesy dish, sprinkle cheese between layers of pasta and chicken before stirring in the final cheese.
- Top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Add a handful of spinach or kale at the end for extra veggies and color.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier version of the dish.
- Don’t skip the resting time before serving – this lets the flavors settle and makes the pasta even more flavorful.
Enjoy your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta, an easy, cheesy, and delicious meal the whole family will love!
