One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta [40 Minutes]

One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delightful and convenient dish that combines the flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan with the comfort of pasta. This recipe features tender chicken pieces, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce all cooked together in one pot.

Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, it offers a deliciously cheesy and hearty meal that’s sure to please the entire family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta for its simplicity and incredible taste. It’s a time-saver, requiring minimal cleanup since everything cooks in a single pot.

The combination of juicy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese creates a comforting and satisfying dish. Plus, it’s versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Expert Tips and Tricks

  • Use high-quality marinara sauce: This will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta to ensure it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly after the heat is turned off.
  • Brown the chicken: Searing the chicken pieces before adding the other ingredients adds extra flavor.
  • Stir frequently: This prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  • Use freshly grated cheese: It melts better and has a superior flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

  • Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with diced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
  • Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with ground turkey, sausage, or shrimp for a different protein option.
  • Low-Carb: Use spiralized zucchini or other vegetable noodles instead of pasta.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.

Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette makes an excellent side. For beverages, a glass of medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a chilled sparkling water with lemon complements this dish beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the pasta seems dry.
  • Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot.

Recipe FAQs

  • Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, you can add pre-cooked chicken towards the end of the cooking process to heat it through.
  • What type of pasta works best? Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini are ideal for this dish.
  • Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, this dish can be made ahead and reheated. It might thicken upon standing, so add a bit of liquid when reheating.
  • Is this dish spicy? No, the base recipe is not spicy, but you can add heat with red pepper flakes or hot sauce if desired.
One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Enjoy a quick and easy One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and rich marinara sauce all in one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in marinara sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil.
  4. Add uncooked pasta and Italian seasoning. Reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
  5. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Cheese Tip: For an extra cheesy top, place the pot under the broiler for a couple of minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a deeper flavor.
  • Texture: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before broiling.
  • Nutrition Information:
    Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1
    Amount Per Serving: Calories: 341Total Fat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 1201mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 2gSugar: 5gProtein: 34g

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