If you crave a comforting, soul-satisfying meal that comes together in just one pot, then this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is about to become your new go-to. Imagine juicy bites of chicken mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, all swirled in a rich marinara sauce, then finished under a cloud of gooey mozzarella and nutty Parmesan. With bold Italian-American flavors and hardly any dishes to wash, you’ll want to keep this recipe in regular rotation for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or whenever you need something cozy and delicious that the whole family will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta are refreshingly simple but essential to coaxing out that classic comfort food vibe. Each one brings something special to the table—whether it’s adding richness, throwing in a kick of flavor, or giving the dish its signature cheesy finish.
- Olive oil: Adds richness at the base and helps the chicken brown beautifully.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender, lean protein that soaks up all the saucy flavors.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer, making the whole dish pop.
- Garlic (minced): Gives that beloved aromatic boost, so don’t hold back!
- Marinara sauce: The tangy, robust heart of the pasta—choose your favorite jarred or homemade version.
- Chicken broth: Lends depth to the sauce while helping the pasta cook up perfectly.
- Uncooked penne pasta: Pasta cooks right in the pot, soaking up all the flavor and making cleanup a breeze.
- Italian seasoning: Brings together all those classic Italian herbs in one easy scoop.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick of heat, totally up to your spice preference.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into creamy, stretchy perfection over the pasta.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds that salty, nutty layer that makes Chicken Parmesan irresistible.
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional): Sprinkled on top for fresh bursts of color and flavor.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a roomy skillet or pot set over medium-high heat. While the oil shimmers, season your diced chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper. Adding them to the hot pan, let the chicken sizzle and develop a flavorful golden edge. In about 5 to 6 minutes, your chicken should be cooked through and lightly browned, creating the perfect foundation for your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Once the chicken looks perfect, sprinkle in the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until it smells wildly fragrant and mouthwatering—don’t rush this step! That little burst of garlicky goodness deepens the flavor of the dish and wakes up every other ingredient that’s about to follow.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Now it’s time for the magic. Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, followed by the uncooked penne pasta. Shake in your Italian seasoning and, if you’re feeling a little adventurous, add some red pepper flakes for extra zest. Give everything a big stir so the pasta is covered in that luscious sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking. The pasta should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed, creating a beautifully saucy consistency.
Step 4: Add Cheeses
Turn off the heat and scatter the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir it all together and watch the cheese melt right into the warm pasta, transforming everything into the ultimate cheesy, dreamy bite. This is where One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta truly earns its name!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
As a finishing touch, sprinkle over a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley—if you have it on hand—for a pop of color and herbaceous freshness. Serve the pasta straight from the pot while it’s still steaming and the cheese is irresistibly gooey.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Garnishes
No plate of One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is ever complete without a final flourish. A scattering of fresh basil or parsley adds an aromatic lift and a stunning touch of green. If you’re a cheese lover, a little extra dusting of grated Parmesan just before serving never hurts either!
Side Dishes
This pasta is hearty enough to star as a meal on its own, but if you’re in the mood for extras, a crisp arugula or Caesar salad is a delicious, peppery counterpoint. Don’t forget some warm, crusty bread for mopping up every bit of sauce. Roasted veggies or a simple sautéed green like spinach also round things out beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, bring the entire pot to the table and let everyone serve themselves—it’s inviting and keeps things simple. Hosting friends? Spoon the pasta into shallow bowls, then top each with an extra sprinkle of cheese and some basil ribbons for a restaurant-worthy look. If you have a bit more time, you can even pop individual servings under the broiler to brown the cheese for extra drama!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have extra One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta? Lucky you! Let leftovers cool to room temperature, then scoop them into airtight containers. They’ll keep happily in the fridge for up to three days, making tomorrow’s lunch (or midnight snack) a real treat.
Freezing
While pasta can lose a little of its bite after freezing, this dish still freezes wonderfully for up to two months. Let the pasta cool, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and don’t forget to label. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To bring your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta back to life, add a splash of chicken broth or water before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave. Cover your dish to keep the pasta from drying out, and stir midway through to heat evenly. Sprinkle with a little fresh cheese or herbs to refresh the flavors before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Short shapes like rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli work just as well as penne. Cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness to keep your pasta perfectly al dente.
Is there a way to make it even quicker?
Yes! Sub in rotisserie chicken instead of raw. Just add chopped cooked chicken to the pot along with the liquids and pasta. This trick slashes your prep time and still gives you that satisfying One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta flavor.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just watch the cooking time and check the pasta early to prevent it from getting mushy, since different gluten-free pastas have unique textures.
Can I add extra veggies?
Go for it—this dish plays well with others! Stir in a handful of fresh baby spinach or some sliced zucchini when you add the liquids. They’ll cook down beautifully and add more color and nutrition to your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta.
What can I substitute for mozzarella?
If mozzarella isn’t your thing or you’re out, try provolone, fontina, or even a little Monterey Jack. All melt well and will add a creamy finish to your pasta.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta couldn’t be easier or more rewarding—cheesy, hearty, and so nourishing, it’s comfort food done right. I hope you’ll give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a staple in your own kitchen, too. Grab your biggest pot and dig in—you’re in for something truly delicious!
Print
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful marinara sauce, and gooey cheese with pasta in one skillet. It’s a comforting dish perfect for a quick family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the pan. Cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add garlic: Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in marinara sauce, chicken broth, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a boil, then simmer.
- Add cheese: Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
- Add spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
