Enjoy this easy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe. Juicy chicken, pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese—all in one pot for a delicious and effortless meal.

Introduction:

Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner that requires minimal cleanup? One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the answer! This recipe combines all the flavors you love from classic chicken parmesan—tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, melty cheese, and flavorful pasta—into one easy-to-make dish. The best part? Everything cooks in just one pot, so you save time on prep and cleanup. Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this meal delivers comfort food goodness with a fraction of the effort. The pasta absorbs all the flavors as it cooks in the same pot with the chicken and sauce, creating a dish that’s packed with taste in every bite. This one-pot wonder will become a family favorite, offering the convenience of a quick meal without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 12 oz uncooked penne pasta
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
6. Add the uncooked pasta to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the pot, and stir to combine.
8. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the pasta, then cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

How to Prepare:

• Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Searing the chicken first gives it a nice golden color and locks in the flavor.
• After sautéing the onions and garlic, be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, as they add extra flavor to the sauce.
• Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• For an extra cheesy experience, feel free to add more mozzarella or Parmesan when serving. You can even broil the dish for a minute to create a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
• Fresh basil or parsley adds a burst of color and fresh flavor, making the dish feel even more special.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings:

• Yields: 4 servings

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

• Yes, you can substitute penne with any short pasta like rotini or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

• Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure the marinara sauce and chicken broth are gluten-free as well.

3. What if I don’t have marinara sauce?

• You can use any tomato-based pasta sauce or even crushed tomatoes seasoned with Italian herbs as a substitute.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

• Yes, you can add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the dish. Just sauté them with the onions for extra flavor and nutrition.

5. How do I store leftovers?

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion:

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate recipe for when you need a comforting meal without the fuss. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a cheesy, tomato-rich sauce, this dish brings all the flavors of chicken parmesan together in one simple pot. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is quick, delicious, and hassle-free. The convenience of having everything cook in one pot makes it a go-to option for busy nights when you still want something hearty and satisfying. Give it a try and enjoy an Italian-inspired dinner that’s sure to become a household favorite!