One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a simple, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, zesty marinara sauce, and pasta in one pot. With melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this dish brings the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan to a quick, easy pasta recipe. Perfect for busy nights or a satisfying dinner, it’s a guaranteed hit for the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, then add the penne pasta. Stir everything to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the chicken is fully cooked.
6. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, mixing until the cheese is melted and everything is combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and substitute with extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach for a vegetarian version.
• Extra Cheesy: Add more mozzarella cheese to the pasta for a cheesier, more indulgent dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a pot over medium heat. Add a little chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute penne with other pasta types like rigatoni, fusilli, or rotini.
2. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time, adding it later in the process to avoid overcooking.
3. What can I use instead of chicken broth? You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth, beef broth, or even water for a lighter flavor.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve. It also freezes well.
5. Can I add vegetables to this dish? Absolutely! You can add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the pot along with the onions and garlic.
6. What if I don’t have Italian seasoning? You can use a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary as a substitute for Italian seasoning.
7. How do I know when the pasta is done? The pasta is done when it is tender but still firm to the bite. Taste a piece after 15 minutes to check if it’s cooked to your liking.
8. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken and sauté the onions and garlic, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
9. How can I make the dish creamier? For a creamier sauce, stir in a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese along with the marinara sauce.
10. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the dish after it has cooled. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a hearty, flavorful dish that simplifies the classic Chicken Parmesan into an easy-to-make, all-in-one pasta meal. With its savory combination of tender chicken, pasta, marinara sauce, and melty cheese, this recipe is perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a comforting meal, this dish delivers convenience and deliciousness in every bite.

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