One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

There’s something magical about a meal that brings together the creamy richness of cheese, the comforting heartiness of pasta, and the savory goodness of chicken—all in one pot! Welcome to the world of One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta. This dish is a true weeknight wonder: flavorful, quick, and best of all, requires minimal cleanup. If you’re looking for an easy dinner that tastes like it took all day, this recipe is for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together everything we love about classic Chicken Parmesan and transforms it into a comforting pasta dish. The best part? It’s all made in one pot, which means fewer dishes for you to worry about afterward! Here’s why you’ll be making this dish over and over again:

• Quick and easy: Perfect for busy nights when you want a comforting, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich and creamy: The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella creates an irresistibly cheesy sauce.
• Minimal cleanup: Only one pot to clean, making it ideal for those who hate doing dishes.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite pasta or add extra veggies for more variety!

The Taste: Comfort in Every Bite

Imagine the robust flavors of a traditional Chicken Parmesan—tender chicken, rich tomato marinara, and melty cheese—but instead of being served as a heavy, breaded dish, it’s wrapped up in perfectly cooked pasta. The tomato sauce provides a tangy base, while the cheese melts into a creamy, savory finish. Every bite is a perfect balance of Italian-inspired goodness.

Ingredients for One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy and delicious dinner:

• 1 lb chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini works best!)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Necessary Tools for Preparation:

• A large, sturdy pot
• A sharp knife for dicing the chicken
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring

this Recipe

How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions. In just 30 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a warm, cheesy plate of this comforting pasta.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is no longer pink in the middle. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken turns golden brown and the garlic releases that delicious aroma!

Step 2: Add the Broth and Pasta

Next, pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, stir in your 12 oz of pasta and 1 cup of marinara sauce. This creates the base for that amazing, saucy pasta! Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta will absorb the broth and sauce, becoming tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Make it Cheesy!

When the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, remove the pot from heat. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Watch as the cheeses melt into the pasta, creating a creamy, savory sauce that coats every bite. This is where the magic happens!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything is melted and mixed, it’s time to plate up. Garnish your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta with some freshly chopped basil for a pop of color and extra flavor (optional but highly recommended!). Serve hot and get ready for everyone to ask for seconds!

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ways to customize your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta to suit your tastes or what you have on hand:

• Add vegetables: Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms when you add the pasta to sneak in some extra nutrition.
• Try different cheeses: If you’re out of mozzarella, you can swap it for provolone or even cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Switch up the pasta: Don’t have penne or rotini? Feel free to use any short pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or ziti.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you want a kick of heat.

What to Serve with One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Here are some ideas:

• Garlic bread: You can never go wrong with a crusty, buttery slice of garlic bread.
• Simple green salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances out the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a nice crunch and lightness to the meal.

Tips for Making the Best One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Here are a few tips to ensure your pasta turns out perfectly every time:

• Stir occasionally: When the pasta is cooking in the broth, make sure to stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep an eye on your pasta towards the end of the cooking time so it stays al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
• Adjust consistency: If you find the sauce too thick after adding the cheese, you can stir in a splash of milk or additional broth to loosen it up.

Storage Instructions

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Store your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pasta before microwaving to restore its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes! If you have leftover cooked chicken, feel free to use it. Just add it to the pot when you add the broth and pasta.

Can I freeze this pasta?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. While you can freeze it, the pasta may lose some of its texture when reheated. If you do freeze it, make sure to thaw it completely before reheating.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap out the pasta for a gluten-free variety. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

With its cheesy, savory flavors and simple one-pot method, this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a weeknight hero. It brings the taste of classic Italian comfort food into your home with minimal effort and cleanup. Try it out, and don’t forget to tag your creations on Pinterest! I’d love to see your version of this dish.

And if you’re in the mood for more easy meals, don’t forget to check out my Crockpot Ham and Potato Casserole or my Mac n’ Cheese Burger Wrap Recipe!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 560
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g

Enjoy your pasta night!

Print