Introduction
Craving the classic flavors of chicken parmesan but don’t want the hassle of multiple pots and pans? This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is your perfect solution! Combining tender chicken, hearty pasta, and a rich marinara sauce, this dish is topped with gooey melted cheese for a comforting meal that’s ready in no time.
With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a quick dinner that feels indulgent. Let’s dive into creating this easy, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing dish!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious one-pot chicken parmesan pasta:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed) | 2 medium-sized |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Onion (diced) | 1 small |
| Pasta (penne or rotini) | 12 oz |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups |
| Chicken broth | 2 ½ cups |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ¼ teaspoon |
| Mozzarella cheese (shredded) | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | ½ cup |
| Fresh basil (for garnish) | Optional |
Step-by-Step Instructions
RELATED: Baked Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Recipe
Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onions turn translucent. This step builds the base flavor for your pasta.
Stir in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you prefer a hint of spice. Mix well before adding the uncooked pasta.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be tender, and the liquid should mostly absorb.
Return the cooked chicken to the pot, mixing it into the pasta and sauce. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover the pot for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt beautifully.
Once the cheese is melted and gooey, remove the pot from heat. Garnish with fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy this one-pot masterpiece!
Tips for Perfect One-Pot Pasta
Selecting the right type of pasta is key to ensuring even cooking. Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli work best as they cook evenly and absorb the sauce beautifully, creating a cohesive dish.
Frequent stirring is essential to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot and to ensure even cooking. It also helps distribute the flavors evenly throughout the dish for a consistent taste.
Tailor the recipe to your taste by adjusting the spice level. Add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your preference. You can also boost the flavor by incorporating extra Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like oregano and thyme.
For an extra creamy texture, mix in a dollop of ricotta or mascarpone cheese before serving. These additions create a velvety finish that enhances the overall richness of the dish.
Variations and Additions
For a meat-free version, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or eggplant. These ingredients add a hearty texture and a burst of umami flavor that complements the pasta beautifully.
Enhance the nutritional value by incorporating more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. These additions not only add vibrant colors but also pack the dish with essential vitamins and minerals.
Experiment with different proteins for a unique twist. Ground turkey, shrimp, or tofu can all be used in place of chicken, offering different textures and flavors while maintaining the dish’s versatility.
Nutritional Benefits
This one-pot recipe offers a balance of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a complete meal. Chicken provides lean protein, while the pasta delivers energy-packed carbohydrates. The addition of marinara sauce offers vitamins from tomatoes, and fresh basil adds antioxidants. For a healthier twist, use whole-grain pasta or zucchini noodles. These swaps can increase fiber while maintaining the dish’s hearty feel.
RELATED: Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Conclusion
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe combines the classic flavors of chicken parmesan into a quick, mess-free dinner that everyone will love. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and melty cheese all in one pot, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious. Give it a try on your next busy weeknight, and enjoy the convenience of cooking—and cleaning—just one pot. Once you take that first cheesy, flavorful bite, you’ll understand why this dish is a keeper!