This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights or when you just want a comforting, cheesy meal without the fuss. Imagine tender chunks of seasoned chicken swimming in a rich marinara sauce, perfectly cooked pasta soaking up all those flavors, and gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses melting throughout—all made effortlessly in a single pot. It’s a harmonious blend of classic Italian-American flavors that feels like a warm hug from the inside, and it’s sure to become your new go-to dinner favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing its part to create layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this recipe truly special. From the savory chicken and rustic Italian spices to the creamy cheeses and fresh basil, every item is a star.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For that perfect golden sear on your chicken to lock in juicy flavor.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): Tender protein that absorbs all the delicious seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the dish’s flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and depth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings that classic garlicky undertone alongside the fresh garlic.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that gives the dish its unmistakable Italian flair.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic to elevate aroma and taste instantly.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Creates a flavorful cooking liquid that keeps the pasta moist and tasty.
- 2½ cups marinara sauce: The heart of the sauce, rich with tomatoes and herbs.
- 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta: Shapes that hold onto the sauce perfectly.
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into creamy, stretchy goodness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor and depth.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (optional): Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish): Provides a touch of heat to spice things up if you like.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cooking the chicken until golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes, locks in all the juicy goodness and builds a flavorful base for the sauce.
Step 2: Add Fresh Garlic
Once the chicken is perfectly browned, stir in the minced garlic. Let it cook for a minute or so until fragrant—the kitchen will start to smell incredible, and this step adds that essential aromatic punch that makes every bite sing.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Marinara
Next, pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce. Stir everything together to combine the savory chicken flavors with the tomato richness. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil—this step wakes up all the ingredients and melds their flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Now it’s time to add the uncooked penne pasta right into the pot. Give it a good stir so every piece is coated in that delicious sauce. Turn the heat down to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the pasta absorbs all the flavorful liquid and softens perfectly, turning the whole dish into a creamy pasta masterpiece.
Step 5: Stir in the Cheeses
Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. The cheeses melt into the dish, creating that irresistible gooey, creamy texture you crave. Let the pot sit off the heat for a couple of minutes so the sauce thickens a bit more, ensuring every forkful is rich and luxurious.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh basil leaves over the top provides a lovely burst of vibrant green and a fresh herbal flavor that brightens the dish. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes is a fantastic way to add a hint of heat if you’re in the mood for a little kick.
Side Dishes
This dish shines beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables can add delightful contrast and extra nutrients to your meal. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette also make perfect companions to sop up every bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe in individual baking dishes topped with extra mozzarella, then broil until bubbly and lightly golden. It’s a stunning presentation that elevates this cozy meal into something special for guests or family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the pasta, but because of the cheese and pasta texture, it’s best to freeze it before adding cheese. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh cheese.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring often. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help loosen the sauce and keep the pasta from drying out during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotini, rigatoni, or even fusilli work great as they hold sauce well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta type.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy taste without dairy.
How spicy is this dish?
The base recipe has a mild heat level, but you can easily increase the spice by adding more crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and freeze it fully assembled?
Because of the cheese and pasta texture, freezing fully assembled isn’t ideal. It’s better to freeze before adding cheese and then add fresh cheese when reheating.
What if I don’t have chicken broth on hand?
You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water in a pinch, though broth adds more depth of flavor to the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you make this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation. The ease, comforting flavors, and minimal cleanup make it a total winner for any night of the week. So grab your pot, gather the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a cozy, delicious meal that feels homemade and heartwarming every single time.
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: Nut-Free
Description
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delicious and convenient Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheeses all cooked together in a single pot. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it uses simple pantry ingredients and results in a creamy, comforting pasta meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Protein and Seasonings
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Base and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2½ cups marinara sauce
Pasta and Cheese
- 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish (Optional)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the cooked chicken and sauté for another minute until fragrant, ensuring the garlic releases its aroma without burning.
- Add liquids and bring to boil: Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the pasta: Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Melt the cheeses: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until they melt into a creamy sauce.
- Thicken and serve: Remove the pot from heat and let the pasta sit for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh basil and crushed red pepper flakes if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute penne with rotini or rigatoni for a different pasta shape.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- To make the pasta creamier, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving.
