Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

There's nothing like the comforting aroma of bubbling marinara sauce and melty cheese filling your kitchen. Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and gooey mozzarella for a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.

this Recipe

This recipe came into my life during a frantic weeknight when I craved the flavors of classic chicken parmesan but didn’t have time for breading and frying. It’s now a go-to in our home, loved for its simplicity and the way it brings everyone to the table. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot in your rotation.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Get ready to add this recipe to your list of kitchen MVPs. Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delightful twist on a classic that offers all the familiar flavors with half the effort.

First, this dish is incredibly quick and easy to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you can have a full meal on the table, perfect for busy weeknights when time is short but cravings are big.

Secondly, it’s one-pot magic! Who doesn’t love fewer dishes to wash? By cooking the pasta in the same pan as the sauce, cleanup becomes a breeze without sacrificing flavor.

This recipe is also budget-friendly. With simple pantry staples like pasta, marinara sauce, and shredded cheese, you can serve a family of four without breaking the bank.

Finally, it’s a hit with everyone. From picky kids to adults seeking comfort food, this pasta is versatile enough to please even the toughest critics. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite add-ins, from veggies to extra spices.

Ready to whip up this delectable dish? Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make it shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Chicken Parmesan Pasta lies in its accessible, everyday ingredients. Here’s how each one plays a role in creating this flavor-packed meal:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. They cook quickly and stay tender in the sauce. You can also use thighs if you prefer a juicier option.
• Pasta: Short shapes like penne or rigatoni work best. Their ridges help hold the sauce and cheese, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Feel free to use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta as needed.
• Marinara Sauce: A high-quality store-bought marinara is a time-saver. Look for one with minimal sugar and robust tomato flavor. If you have homemade sauce, even better!
• Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese: Mozzarella provides that melty, stretchy goodness, while grated Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor. Freshly grated cheese makes a noticeable difference.
• Garlic and Onion: These aromatics are sautéed to form the flavor base of the dish. Don’t skip them – they’re key to a delicious, savory sauce.
• Seasonings: Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper elevate the flavor. Adjust to suit your taste preferences.

You’ll also need a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to cook everything in one pot. Trust me, this approach simplifies both cooking and cleanup!

How to Make This Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Creating Chicken Parmesan Pasta is as simple as layering flavors and letting the magic happen in one pan. Follow these steps to pasta perfection:

Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the chicken pieces until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side, then remove them from the pan.

In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and softened. These aromatics build the foundation of the sauce and soak up all the delicious browned bits from the chicken.

Next, add the marinara sauce, chicken broth, and uncooked pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is submerged. Cover and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender – about 10-12 minutes.

Return the chicken to the skillet and sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover the pan and let the cheese melt into gooey perfection, about 3-5 minutes.

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve hot. The entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight win.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers of this delicious Chicken Parmesan Pasta, don’t worry – it stores beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.
• Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm the pasta on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Chicken Parmesan Pasta is its versatility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a veggie-packed alternative.
• Protein Swap: Use ground chicken, turkey, or even Italian sausage instead of chicken breasts for a different spin.
• Cheese Lovers: Add ricotta or burrata cheese for an extra creamy texture. A sprinkle of shredded provolone also works wonders.
• Spicy Kick: Crank up the heat with more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety and ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free as well.

Experiment with these variations to suit your tastes – the possibilities are endless!

Now that you’ve got the recipe, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking. Whether it’s a family dinner, a cozy date night, or meal prep for the week, Chicken Parmesan Pasta is sure to be a hit. Let me know how yours turns out!

Print