If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve just found your new favorite: the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is a game-changer. Imagine tender, seasoned chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta swimming in a rich marinara sauce, all topped with melty mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan. This dish brings all the beloved flavors of classic chicken Parmesan but with a fuss-free, one-pot twist that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to for irresistible Italian-inspired comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe sing. Each element plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding depth to the sauce, tender texture to the chicken, or that ooey-gooey cheesy finish we all dream of.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, seasoned to savory perfection for juicy bites.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers an extra layer of cozy, savory aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Offers a sweet and mild onion undertone.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings classic herbaceous notes that scream “Italian comfort.”
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing chicken and infusing richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives the sauce that irresistible punch.
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce: The flavorful base that envelops the pasta and chicken in tangy tomato goodness.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth, making sure the pasta cooks perfectly in the pot.
- 8 oz penne pasta: Holds the sauce well with its ridged texture, soaking up all the yummy flavors.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that signature stretchy, cheesy finish.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty notes to complement the mozzarella.
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: A burst of fresh, aromatic color to brighten the dish right before serving.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This blend creates a flavorful crust during cooking and infuses the chicken with layers of Italian-inspired seasoning you’ll love.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts until browned on both sides, locking in juices and building a delicious base for the sauce. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside — the magic happens right in the same pot.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Using the leftover oil and chicken bits, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook it for about one minute until fragrant. This step infuses the dish with fresh garlicky goodness, setting the stage for the next layer of flavor.
Step 4: Add Sauce, Broth, and Pasta
Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Then, add the penne pasta, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring this mixture to a simmer — this is where the pasta starts to absorb those rich flavors and cook perfectly right in the pot.
Step 5: Return Chicken to Pot
Slice the browned chicken breasts and nestle the pieces back into the simmering sauce and pasta. Cover the pot and let everything cook together for 12 to 15 minutes until the pasta is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Step 6: Melt the Cheeses
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the pasta and chicken. Cover the pot again and let the cheeses melt into a gooey, irresistible topping that brings the whole dish together.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish by garnishing with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and bright herbal notes. Now it’s time to dive into your homemade masterpiece!
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond fresh basil, a light drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add an extra punch to each serving. Don’t be shy — garnishes can bring exciting layers of flavor and textural contrast that elevate the entire meal.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite hearty on its own, but serving it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette adds refreshing brightness. Garlic bread or warm focaccia are also fantastic for soaking up every last bit of sauce, making the meal feel even more indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, serve the pasta right out of the pot with a colorful platter of sliced cherry tomatoes and basil alongside. For a more elegant touch, dish the pasta into individual shallow bowls and sprinkle each with extra Parmesan and a basil leaf for a rustic yet refined look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days when you want a quick, delicious dinner.
Freezing
This pasta freezes well, too. Store portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember that cheese might separate slightly upon thawing, so a quick stir before reheating helps bring everything back together.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally to keep the pasta moist and the cheese melty without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great because of its shape and texture, feel free to use rigatoni, rotini, or even fusilli. Just adjust cooking times slightly if needed, as pasta shapes vary in thickness.
What if I don’t have chicken breasts?
You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor. They’ll take about the same time to cook, and the marinating spices work just as well with dark meat.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the chicken and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also include plant-based chicken substitutes to keep the protein element without compromising flavor.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives or omit the cheese topping altogether. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor punch without dairy, keeping it vegan and delicious.
How do I make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the pot?
Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking and make sure there’s enough liquid covering the pasta. Adding chicken broth helps prevent sticking and keeps everything flavorful and smooth.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a meal that combines ease, heartwarming flavors, and minimal cleanup — and the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe delivers all that and more. Whether you’re cooking for the family or treating yourself on a busy evening, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your craving for comforting Italian goodness. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a household favorite!
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One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a hearty and comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken breasts, zesty marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta all in one pot. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh basil, it’s an easy, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cooking Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz penne pasta
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Thoroughly season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning to impart robust flavors.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until they develop a golden brown crust on both sides. Remove the chicken and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Garlic: Using the same pot, add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant, ensuring not to burn it to maintain a fresh garlic aroma.
- Add Sauce and Pasta: Stir in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, and penne pasta. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, preparing the pasta to cook in the flavorful liquids.
- Cook Chicken and Pasta Together: Slice the browned chicken breasts and add them back into the pot. Cover and continue cooking on medium-low heat until the pasta is tender and the chicken is cooked through, approximately 12 to 15 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the pasta and chicken. Cover the pot and allow the cheese to melt into the hot mixture, creating a creamy topping.
- Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and an extra layer of fresh herbaceous flavor before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- If the sauce thickens too much while cooking, add a splash more chicken broth to loosen it.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta alternatives.
