Introduction
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate combination of convenience and flavor. With tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich marinara sauce topped with gooey melted cheese, this dish takes all the best parts of Chicken Parmesan and transforms them into a comforting, easy-to-make one-pot meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a restaurant-quality dish without the hassle of multiple pans, this recipe ensures maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.
The History Of
Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, has its roots in Italian-American cuisine. Originally inspired by traditional Italian dishes like Eggplant Parmigiana, this classic recipe was adapted in the United States to feature breaded chicken instead of eggplant, often paired with pasta. Over time, the combination of chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese became a beloved comfort food. The one-pot version is a modern twist, created to simplify preparation while preserving the dish’s signature flavors.
Ingredients Breakdown
▢2 tbsp olive oil – adds flavor and helps cook the chicken
▢1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – provides lean protein
▢3 cloves garlic, minced – infuses the dish with aromatic flavor
▢1 tsp Italian seasoning – blends herbs to enhance the overall taste
▢½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – adds a hint of spice
▢Salt and pepper to taste – for seasoning the chicken and pasta
▢12 oz penne pasta – the perfect shape to hold the sauce and cheese
▢4 cups chicken broth – cooks the pasta and adds savory depth
▢1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce – provides a rich tomato base
▢1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – creates that gooey, cheesy topping
▢½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds sharp, nutty flavor
▢Fresh basil leaves, chopped – for garnish and a burst of freshness
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the uncooked penne pasta, chicken broth, and marinara sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stir to distribute evenly, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve hot.
Tips for the Perfect Dish
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- For extra crispiness, broil the dish for a few minutes after adding the cheese topping.
- Adjust the seasoning based on the saltiness of your chicken broth and marinara sauce.
Variations and Customizations
- Substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- For a low-carb version, replace the penne with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Use a mix of cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or fontina for a different flavor profile.
- Spice it up by adding more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
This dish is a wholesome balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a satisfying meal. Chicken provides lean protein, while the pasta offers energy-boosting carbs. Using low-sodium chicken broth and marinara sauce can help reduce the overall sodium content. Opt for whole-grain pasta for added fiber or use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions. While cheese contributes to the dish’s richness, portion control can help manage calorie intake.
FAQ
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth or marinara sauce while reheating to maintain moisture.
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle are great alternatives that hold the sauce well.
- What can I serve with this dish? Serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven.
- What if I don’t have a skillet large enough? You can use a Dutch oven or divide the recipe between two smaller pans.
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
- ▢2-3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ▢1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ▢1/2 tsp garlic powder
- ▢1 medium yellow onion finely minced
- ▢3 cloves garlic minced
- ▢16 oz dried short-cut pasta such as rigatoni
- ▢24 oz jar of marinara sauce such as Newman’s Own
- ▢Water to fill the empty marinara sauce jar
- ▢1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ▢1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ▢Salt and pepper to taste
- ▢Additional dried Italian seasoning optional
- ▢Fresh parsley and/or basil minced, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot or skillet (I used my Dutch oven), drizzle a bit of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is mostly cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
- Next, add the onion and garlic to the pot, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. Pour in the marinara sauce, then fill the empty jar with water and add that to the pot as well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a strong simmer.
- Add the cooked chicken and pasta, stirring to combine. Cover the pot and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta reaches your desired level of doneness. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup of the mozzarella cheese.
- Top the dish with the remaining 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become gooey. If desired, sprinkle extra Italian seasoning on top and garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.