Nothing beats a comforting, hearty meal on a busy day, and this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the perfect solution. It’s flavorful, easy to prepare, and eliminates the hassle of multiple pots and pans. From the rich marinara sauce to the gooey parmesan topping, this recipe brings everything you love about chicken parmesan into a single, convenient dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Save time on cooking and cleanup.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Perfectly seasoned chicken, tender pasta, and cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients or add veggies for a personal touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything to gather before you start cooking:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 2 cups dry pasta (penne or rigatoni work best)
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Base
- In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, and water. Stir to combine.
- Add the pasta, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let the pasta cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Cheese
- Once the pasta is tender, stir the cooked chicken back into the skillet.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
- Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Pasta: Short pasta like penne or rigatoni absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure the pasta has enough liquid to cook evenly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parmesan and basil elevate the dish’s taste.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
- A crisp green salad for a light side.
- Warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- A glass of white wine for a touch of elegance.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Short pasta like fusilli or farfalle works well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta’s package instructions.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare it ahead, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to maintain its texture.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken can be added during the final steps for an even quicker meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave.
Can I freeze One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta?
Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I substitute for marinara sauce?
Tomato sauce with a touch of Italian seasoning and garlic makes a great substitute.
Conclusion
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate combination of ease, flavor, and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers satisfying results every time. Give it a try, and enjoy the joy of a no-fuss, delicious dinner!