The One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is an absolute game-changer when it comes to weeknight dinners. Imagine the hearty flavors of classic chicken parmesan folding into tender pasta, all cooked together in one pot to create comfort food magic. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for those busy evenings when you want a delicious and satisfying meal without a mountain of dishes. This recipe brings together juicy, seasoned chicken pieces, rich marinara, melty cheeses, and aromatic herbs to deliver a feast your whole family will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a key role in building layers of flavor, inviting textures, and vibrant colors that make this dish irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and the perfect frying base for the chicken.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces): Provides tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a warm, savory undertone to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that delivers that authentic Italian flair.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh aromatic punch that elevates the sauce.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that cooks the pasta and infuses every bite.
- 24 ounces marinara sauce: The tomatoey heart of the dish, rich and comforting.
- 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta: Perfectly shaped to hold the sauce and cheese.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, dreamy goodness throughout the pasta.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish that’s essential to Parmesan pasta.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (optional for garnish): A fresh herbal note that brightens the presentation and flavor.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your chicken pieces, then season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. The goal here is to brown the chicken on all sides for about 5 to 6 minutes — you want that gorgeous golden color and flavor, but don’t worry if it isn’t fully cooked yet; it will finish cooking later with the pasta.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Once the chicken has taken on a beautiful color, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté everything together for about a minute until the garlic releases its intoxicating aroma, but be careful not to let it burn. This step infuses the dish with that classic garlic warmth that chicken Parmesan lovers crave.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Bring to a Boil
Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce, stirring until everything is perfectly combined. This mixture is going to cook the pasta and infuse the chicken with rich tomato and herb flavors. Crank up the heat just until it reaches a boil, which sets the stage for tender pasta without needing separate pots.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta and Finish Cooking the Chicken
Add the uncooked penne pasta directly into the pot, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet to trap the steam and let it simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure the pasta cooks evenly. During this time, the chicken finishes cooking through, tender and juicy, while the pasta absorbs those remarkable tomato and broth flavors.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses
With the pasta perfectly tender and the chicken cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses while the mixture is still hot. The cheese melts beautifully, transforming this pasta into a luscious, creamy wonder. Let it rest for 5 minutes to thicken and allow the flavors to meld together wonderfully.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a burst of color and fresh herbaceous brightness that balances the richness of the cheese and sauce. For an extra touch, a light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add playful complexity.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta pairs perfectly with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables to lighten the meal. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette offers a delightful way to soak up every bit of that cheesy marinara goodness. Simple steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach also add a nice textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe in deep bowls for a cozy family-style feel or on large plates to show off the vibrant colors and melty cheese. For a fun twist, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts on top to add unexpected crunch. Using colorful pasta shapes or adding a pop of roasted red peppers can make presentation even more inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors will develop more overnight, making for even tastier second servings for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute the sauce and cheese evenly.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe ahead of time, it freezes quite well. Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. To avoid separation or texture changes, it’s best to omit fresh basil and cheese for the initial freeze and add fresh cheese when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring often, so the cheese melts evenly and the pasta heats through without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding onto the sauce, rotini or rigatoni work beautifully as well. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as different shapes may take slightly longer or shorter to cook.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese alternatives to suit dietary needs. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor if you want to skip traditional cheeses altogether.
Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Definitely! Using pre-cooked chicken is a great shortcut. Just add it after the pasta has cooked to warm through. This change reduces cooking time and is incredibly convenient.
How spicy is this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe?
This recipe is mild and kid-friendly as is. You can add a touch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking or as a garnish if you prefer a bit of heat.
What can I do to make this recipe richer?
For an indulgent twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream along with the cheeses at the end. This will create an extra creamy sauce that feels decadent and comforting.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe, it’s bound to become a go-to in your kitchen especially on those busy nights craving a warm, delicious meal without hassle. The beautiful marriage of flavors, the ease of one-pot cooking, and the crowd-pleasing nature make it a winner every time. Give it a whirl, and soon you’ll be sharing it with friends and family as one of your favorite simple pleasures.
Print
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
A delicious and easy one-pot chicken parmesan pasta combining tender chicken pieces, savory marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, all cooked together in a single pan for a quick and comforting Italian-American meal.
Ingredients
Protein & Meat
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
Liquids & Sauces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Pasta & Grains
- 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta
Cheese & Dairy
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh Herbs
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat oil and brown chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5–6 minutes, but not fully cooked through.
- Add garlic and sauté: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 more minute to release its aroma and flavor.
- Add liquids and bring to boil: Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce, then stir to combine all ingredients. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook pasta and chicken: Add the uncooked penne pasta to the boiling mixture. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Incorporate cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and fully combined into the sauce.
- Let thicken and garnish: Let the dish sit for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and meld. Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired, then serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute rotini or rigatoni for penne pasta if preferred.
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream along with the cheeses.
- Use rotisserie chicken as a shortcut by adding it later in the cooking process and adjusting cook time accordingly.
