Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

There's nothing like the aroma of Chicken Parmesan Pasta filling your kitchen—a comforting blend of crispy chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich marinara sauce, topped with a blanket of melted mozzarella and Parmesan. This dish brings all the flavors of classic chicken parmesan into an easy, family-friendly one-pot meal.

I first discovered this recipe when I wanted to combine two of my family's favorite dishes—chicken parmesan and pasta bake. The result? A creamy, cheesy, irresistible dinner that has become a staple in our home. Let me show you how easy it is to bring this Italian-inspired delight to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Get ready to embrace your new go-to dinner recipe. This Chicken Parmesan Pasta is everything you want in a meal: satisfying, simple, and loaded with flavor.

First, it’s a time-saver. With only 30 minutes of prep and cooking, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to go. Perfect for those busy weeknights when everyone’s hungry, and time is tight.

Second, this recipe uses just one pot, cutting down on dishes. You can savor the flavors without worrying about a sink full of pans waiting for you.

It’s also a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender chicken, hearty pasta, and gooey cheese is sure to make everyone at the table happy—even picky eaters.

Lastly, it’s highly customizable. You can easily swap ingredients to fit what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Gluten-free pasta? No problem. Prefer a spicier sauce? Go for it!

Trust me, after one bite, you’ll want this recipe in your regular rotation.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing an important role in delivering the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They’re easy to cut into bite-sized pieces and cook quickly. For added flavor, you can use chicken thighs, which are juicier and more forgiving if overcooked.
• Pasta: Short pasta like penne or rigatoni works best, as their shape holds onto the sauce beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, rotini or shells are also great choices.
• Marinara Sauce: A good-quality jarred marinara keeps this recipe quick and convenient. Choose one with minimal sugar for a more authentic flavor, or use your favorite homemade version.
• Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese: These cheeses create the creamy, cheesy topping that makes this dish irresistible. Grate your Parmesan fresh if you can—it melts better and has a superior flavor.
• Seasonings: A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes adds depth to the dish. Feel free to adjust the spice level to your preference.
• Breadcrumbs (optional): For an extra touch of crunch, sprinkle some seasoned breadcrumbs over the top before baking.

No special equipment is needed—just a large, oven-safe skillet or a Dutch oven to cook everything in one pot.

How To Make This Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Making Chicken Parmesan Pasta is easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.

1. Prep the Ingredients
   Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces and seasoning them with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Dice your onion and mince some garlic for the sauce.
2. Cook the Chicken
   Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil and let it heat until shimmering. Sear the chicken pieces until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Don’t worry about cooking them through—they’ll finish in the sauce. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Build the Sauce
   In the same pan, sauté the onion until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in your marinara sauce and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta
   Add the uncooked pasta directly to the sauce. Stir to ensure it’s well-coated, then cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
5. Combine and Bake
   Stir the cooked chicken back into the pasta and sauce mixture. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. If using breadcrumbs, add them now. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven set to broil and bake for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy a meal that tastes like it took hours.

Storage Options

This dish is as easy to store as it is to make. Here’s how to keep it fresh for later:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, transfer the pasta to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
• Reheating: Warm the pasta in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of water or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for experimentation:

• Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a different take on the dish.
• Cheese Choices: Try provolone or fontina for a slightly different cheesy topping.

With so many ways to customize, this recipe can be tailored to suit any palate. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

Chicken Parmesan Pasta combines the best of comfort food and convenience, making it a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, cheesy dishes. Serve it with a simple side salad or garlic bread, and you’ve got a complete meal the whole family will adore. Happy cooking!

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