If you love the comforting flavors of traditional chicken Parmesan but want a hassle-free meal, this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, juicy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and cheesy pasta all cooked together in a single pot for effortless, family-friendly dinner magic. The simplicity and heartiness of this dish make it a go-to weeknight favorite that brings all the classic Italian-American charm without the fuss of multiple pots or complicated steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this dish shine. Each component plays an essential role, from the tender chicken that adds protein, to the fragrant Italian herbs, rich cheeses, and vibrant tomato sauce that bring color and depth of flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the chicken to a golden brown while keeping it juicy inside.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: Ensures quick and even cooking with tender, flavorful bites.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish without overpowering them.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right touch of subtle heat and depth.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that brings that classic Italian taste.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Boosts the savory profile with its lovely aromatic punch.
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce: Acts as the rich tomato base that ties the entire dish together.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Provides the liquid for cooking the pasta and infuses extra flavor.
- 12 oz uncooked penne pasta: Holds sauce beautifully and adds hearty texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty richness that complements the mozzarella.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional): Offers fresh, bright notes as a colorful finishing touch.
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (toasted in a skillet with 1 tsp olive oil for topping, optional): Adds a satisfying crunchy texture contrast if you want to dress it up.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning—this step locks in flavor right from the start. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until it turns lightly golden but isn’t fully cooked through. This part makes sure the chicken stays juicy and tender in the finished dish.
Step 2: Infuse with Garlic
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for just one minute until it becomes fragrant. This quick burst of garlic flavor intensifies the overall taste without turning bitter or overpowering the other ingredients. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point might just have you licking your lips in anticipation!
Step 3: Add Sauces and Broth
Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, stirring gently to combine all those savory elements with the chicken. The marinara provides the signature tangy tomato richness, while the broth adds subtle depth and helps cook the pasta later.
Step 4: Stir in the Pasta and Simmer
Stir uncooked penne pasta into the sauce and broth mixture, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Bring everything up to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to a simmer. Cover your pot and let it cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This step allows the pasta to soften perfectly while the chicken finishes cooking through in the flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Melt the Cheeses
Once the pasta and chicken are ready, remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. The cheeses melt into a luscious, creamy layer that makes every bite irresistibly cheesy and comforting. This finishing touch truly brings the essence of chicken Parmesan into this one-pot wonder.
Step 6: Add Toppings (Optional)
If you’re feeling fancy or crave a little crunch, sprinkle the toasted seasoned breadcrumbs on top along with chopped fresh basil or parsley. These garnishes add texture and brighten the overall presentation, making the dish feel both homemade and gourmet.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and sauce. Toasted breadcrumbs add delightful crunch and a subtle herbaceous touch, making each plate feel restaurant-worthy without extra effort.
Side Dishes
Pair this comforting pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or simple garlic bread to soak up the sauce. A light, zesty side beautifully balances the creamy, cheesy main, making the whole meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve the pasta directly from the skillet or Dutch oven so everyone gets a glimpse of that bubbling cheesy goodness. Alternatively, portion it into deep bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs for an inviting look. This is a dish best enjoyed with family and friends around the table sharing every delicious forkful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe holds up wonderfully as leftovers. Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, keeping the flavors intact and ready for a quick reheat.
Freezing
If you want to prep meals ahead, this pasta freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems a bit dry. Stir occasionally until warmed through and the cheese once again becomes melty and luscious. This way, it tastes almost as fresh as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works beautifully by holding the sauce well, you can substitute with rigatoni, rotini, or even bowtie pasta depending on what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s al dente.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a hearty, meat-free version. You can also increase the cheese for added richness.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
While cooking the chicken directly in the pot adds great flavor, you can use pre-cooked chicken to speed things up. Add it in towards the end just to warm through after the pasta has cooked.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional and provide that classic creamy and tangy combination. For extra flavor, mixing in provolone or fontina can add complexity and meltability.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild and kid-friendly as written. If you prefer a little kick, feel free to add red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken or sprinkle some on top before serving.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is truly a lifesaver when you want that cozy, cheesy Italian comfort food without the stress. It’s straightforward, satisfying, and perfect for weeknights or casual dinners with friends. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals — once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
A delicious and easy one-pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta that combines tender chicken, flavorful marinara, and cheesy goodness all cooked together in one skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights, this Italian-American dish is a comforting main course featuring penne pasta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and optional toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Liquid and Pasta
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 12 oz uncooked penne pasta
Cheese and Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (toasted in a skillet with 1 tsp olive oil for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned but not fully cooked through.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn.
- Combine Sauce and Pasta: Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth. Stir in the uncooked penne pasta to combine evenly with the sauce and liquid.
- Simmer and Cook Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Let it simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheeses melt and the mixture becomes creamy.
- Optional Toppings and Serve: If desired, sprinkle toasted seasoned breadcrumbs and fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for added texture and freshness.
Notes
- For extra cheesy flavor, try using a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese.
- This dish reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
- To toast breadcrumbs, heat them in a skillet with 1 tsp olive oil until golden brown and crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
