One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Looking for a quick, delicious, and hassle-free dinner? This One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the answer! Combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and gooey cheese, this dish delivers bold Italian-inspired flavors without the need for multiple pots or pans. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving comfort food with minimal cleanup.

What Is One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta?

This recipe is a one-pot twist on the classic chicken Parmesan, blending pasta, chicken, marinara sauce, and cheese into a creamy, hearty meal. Everything cooks together in one skillet or Dutch oven, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time and effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot, saving you from a sink full of dishes.
• Family-Friendly: A cheesy, comforting dish that everyone will love.
• Versatile: Easily customize with your favorite pasta or added vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1½ cups marinara sauce
• 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cooking the Pasta

3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add chicken broth, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and uncooked pasta. Stir everything together.

Simmering

5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Adding the Finishing Touches

6. Stir in the cooked chicken and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella over the top, cover, and let sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Serving

8. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp side salad for a fresh contrast.
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls for extra indulgence.
• A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, to complement the rich flavors.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
• Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a kick.
• Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken during the final step to save time.

What’s the best pasta to use?
Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works best, as it holds the sauce well.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap the cheese with dairy-free alternatives or omit entirely for a lighter dish.

This One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a must-try for anyone seeking a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. With its simple preparation, hearty ingredients, and cheesy goodness, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Ready to enjoy a stress-free dinner? Try it today and let us know how it turned out!

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