Homemade One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe: A Breeze!

Comfort meets convenience in this delectable one-pot chicken parmesan pasta that’ll make weeknight dinners a breeze.

Melted cheese, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta blend seamlessly in this single-pan wonder.

The kitchen magic happens quickly as you combine classic Italian flavors in an easy, no-fuss method.

Golden-brown chicken nestles atop al dente pasta, creating a harmonious dish bursting with savory goodness.

Rich marinara sauce coats every strand, ensuring each bite delivers maximum flavor.

Simple ingredients transform into a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal cleanup.

Hungry diners will be drawn to this irresistible combination of crispy chicken and creamy pasta that promises satisfaction in every forkful.

Serve One-Pot Parmesan Pasta with Style

• Rustic Italian Family Dinner: Pair this hearty one-pot chicken parmesan pasta with a crisp Caesar salad for a complete meal that feels like a cozy Italian restaurant experience.
• Weeknight Comfort Combo: Serve alongside warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce, creating a satisfying and filling dinner that everyone will love.
• Fresh Herb Finish: Sprinkle extra chopped fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving to add a bright, aromatic touch that elevates the dish's flavor and visual appeal.
• Wine Pairing Pleasure: Complement the rich, cheesy pasta with a glass of medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese to enhance the meal's classic Italian profile.

How to Store It for Meal Prep Magic

• Whip up a double batch and enjoy multiple meals throughout the week. This one-pot wonder tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to mingle and develop.
• Transfer cooled pasta to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The pasta might absorb extra sauce, so keep a splash of broth nearby to refresh when reheating.
• Freeze individual portions in sealed containers for quick grab-and-go lunches. Remove mozzarella before freezing to maintain optimal texture when thawing.
• Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally and add extra cheese on top for a fresh-from-the-pot feel.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with other short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or shells. Just ensure they have similar cooking times to maintain the one-pot convenience.

• Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with plant-based protein like tofu, chickpeas, or white beans. The seasoning and cooking method will remain the same, keeping the flavor profile intact.

• How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes when seasoning the chicken or mix in some cayenne pepper. You can also use a spicy marinara sauce or add a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat level.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can cook the pasta and chicken in advance. Reheat gently in a pot, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying, and add cheese just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 500 kcal

Servings: 4

Chicken Parmesan Pasta in One-Pot Ingredients

• Chicken: Lean protein that adds hearty flavor and substance to the dish, choose boneless skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking and tender texture.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances chicken's savory profile with subtle aromatic warmth, select a high-quality brand for maximum flavor impact.

• Chicken Broth: Creates rich cooking liquid for pasta, opt for low-sodium varieties to control overall saltiness.
• Marinara Sauce: Provides classic Italian tomato base, select a smooth, well-seasoned sauce for depth of flavor.

• Uncooked Pasta: Absorbs flavors while cooking, choose medium-sized pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni for best texture.
• Italian Seasoning: Delivers authentic herb blend, look for fresh, fragrant mixes with balanced oregano, basil, and thyme notes.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing overall dish seasoning, use freshly ground black pepper for maximum flavor.

• Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, nutty undertone, select authentic imported Italian Parmigiano-Reggiano for best quality.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Creates creamy, melty topping, choose low-moisture variety for optimal melting.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Provides bright, fresh garnish, select vibrant green leaves with intense aroma.

• Olive Oil: Helps sauté chicken and prevent sticking, choose extra virgin for best flavor.
• Garlic Bread or Green Salad: Complementary side dishes to round out the meal.

Kitchen Tools for Simple, One-Pot Success

• Large Pot or Deep Skillet: Essential for cooking chicken and creating the entire one-pot dish.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring chicken and mixing pasta without scratching the pot.
• Measuring Cups: Helps accurately measure chicken broth and marinara sauce.
• Sharp Knife: Needed for dicing chicken and chopping fresh basil.
• Cutting Board: Provides a clean surface for preparing ingredients.
• Cheese Grater: Useful if using block Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated.

Cook This Pasta Dish with Fewer Dishes to Wash

• Sear Chicken Chunks

Toss diced chicken into a sizzling large pot with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden and fully done, stirring occasionally. Pull chicken out and set aside.

• Create Pasta Base

Drop chicken broth, marinara sauce, and uncooked pasta into the same pot. Mix everything together. Let the mixture bubble up, then lower the heat. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta reaches perfect tenderness and sauce thickens.

• Melt Cheesy Goodness

Return chicken chunks back into the pot. Scatter Parmesan cheese and stir. Top with mozzarella, cover, and let cheese transform into a gooey blanket for about 2-3 minutes.

• Plate and Enjoy

Optional: Scatter fresh basil leaves on top. Serve piping hot alongside crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Tips That Make Your Chicken Pasta Extra Creamy

• Watch the pasta closely during simmering to avoid overcooking; aim for that ideal al dente texture where noodles are tender but still have a slight bite.
• This one-pot wonder can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making busy weeknight dinners a breeze – simply reheat gently with a splash of extra broth.
• Easily replace chicken with ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh for different dietary preferences without losing flavor complexity.
• Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties like chickpea, rice, or corn-based noodles to accommodate gluten-sensitive diners while maintaining the recipe's delicious essence.
• Add red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne, or sliced jalapeños during cooking to introduce a warm, zesty kick that elevates the dish's flavor profile for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Effortless One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Savory One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta blends Italian-American comfort flavors in a single skillet. Home cooks can enjoy a creamy, cheesy meal with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups (200 g) uncooked penne or rigatoni pasta
• 1 (24 oz/680 g) jar marinara sauce
• 3 cups (720 ml) chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Searing Protein: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium temperature. Introduce diced chicken seasoned with garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until chicken develops golden-brown edges and reaches complete internal doneness. Remove chicken and set aside on a separate plate.
2. Pasta Foundation: Without cleaning the pot, pour chicken broth and marinara sauce. Add uncooked pasta, stirring to ensure even ingredient distribution. Increase heat to achieve a robust boil, then immediately reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook, occasionally stirring, until pasta absorbs liquid and becomes perfectly tender, approximately 12-15 minutes.
3. Cheese Integration: Return cooked chicken to the pasta mixture. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese across the surface, gently folding to incorporate. Distribute shredded mozzarella over the top, covering with a lid to allow residual heat to melt the cheese into a creamy, luxurious layer.
4. Presentation: Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately, accompanied by crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

• Chicken Browning Technique: Ensure chicken pieces are patted dry before searing to achieve a perfect golden-brown exterior and prevent steaming instead of caramelizing.
• Pasta Liquid Ratio: Use precise liquid measurements to prevent soggy or undercooked pasta; adjust broth slightly if pasta seems too dry during cooking.
• Cheese Melting Strategy: Remove pot from heat when adding cheese to prevent overcooking or separating, allowing residual warmth to create a smooth, creamy texture.
• Quick Dietary Adaptations: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free varieties, use plant-based cheese alternatives, or substitute chicken with tofu for vegetarian preferences without compromising overall dish structure.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 505
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 870 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 62 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg