One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for a fuss-free dinner that’s bursting with Italian flavor, look no further than this One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta. Imagine all the goodness of classic chicken parmesan transformed into a cozy, saucy pasta dish — but with only one pot to clean! Tender chunks of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese all mingle together for a weeknight meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. From the very first bite, you’ll taste why this recipe is a go-to favorite for busy families and dinner guests alike.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a key role in building those robust flavors and satisfying textures. These pantry and fridge staples come together to create something truly special, all without a mountain of dishes.

• Chicken breast: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces for speedy cooking and great texture throughout the dish.
• Olive oil: A drizzle in the pot keeps everything from sticking and adds that unmistakable Mediterranean rich flavor.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the base with warmth and classic Italian aromatics.
• Onion: Diced onion yields sweetness and depth to the sauce without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Crushed tomatoes: The foundation of any good pasta sauce, providing robust tang and a thick texture for the pasta to soak up.
• Chicken broth: Adds flavor and loosens the sauce just enough for the pasta to cook perfectly in the pot.
• Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne or rotini hold the sauce beautifully and cook evenly alongside the chicken.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs elevates the entire dish with bright, savory notes.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that perks up the sauce — add more or less according to your spice preference.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for a salty, nutty top layer that melts right into the dish.
• Mozzarella cheese: Stringy, creamy, and essential for that classic chicken parmesan finish.
• Fresh basil or parsley: A final flourish of color and freshness to balance the hearty, cheesy flavors.
• Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings that ensure every bite is just right.

How to Make One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Aromatics

Begin by heating olive oil in your largest sturdy pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with salt and black pepper, letting it cook until mostly white but not quite browned. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring occasionally until the onion turns translucent and the kitchen smells like heaven. This step is all about building irresistible flavor from the bottom up!

Step 2: Add the Sauce and Liquids

Pour the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth directly into the pot with your chicken mixture. Stir in those essential Italian seasonings and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a hint of spice. Everything simmers together, marrying flavors and creating the saucy base that makes One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta so craveable.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked pasta straight into the pot, making sure each piece is submerged in the bubbling sauce as much as possible. Stir occasionally and let the pasta absorb the broth and tomato richness, cooking uncovered until it’s just al dente. You’ll notice the sauce thickens beautifully as the pasta cooks, creating the perfect blanket for the chicken and cheese.

Step 4: Make It Cheesy

Reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and half of the mozzarella over the pasta, stirring gently to combine. The cheeses will start melting, creating pockets of gooey goodness throughout the dish. Then, scatter the remaining mozzarella over the top, cover the pot, and let everything sit for a minute or two until the cheese is irresistibly melty and bubbly.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once all the cheese has melted, remove the pot from heat. Give the pasta a final gentle stir, then top with a shower of freshly chopped basil or parsley. Grab your bowls and serve this One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta piping hot — it barely needs anything else to impress.

How to Serve One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Garnishes

Add a flourish of fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley right before serving; this pop of green brings brightness to the final dish. For an extra savory finish, shave a little more Parmesan over each bowl. If you love spice, a thin sprinkle of red pepper flakes can really make the flavors sing.

Side Dishes

This meal is comforting and complete on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some buttered garlic bread to soak up every bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus are perfect for adding a little color and balancing the richness of the cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon the One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta into a large serving dish for a family-style feast or divide into individual oven-safe bowls, top with extra cheese, and broil for a few minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly crust. For a playful twist, serve in hollowed-out bread bowls or with garlic knots perched on the rim.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (a rare event, honestly), let them cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. The pasta will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for effortless lunches or a second cozy dinner.

Freezing

One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta freezes surprisingly well! Portion cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. It will maintain its texture and flavor for up to 2 months in the freezer. For best results, freeze without the garnishes and add them fresh after reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place your pasta in a pot over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce, stirring until everything is hot and steamy. If you’re microwaving, heat on medium with a cover, adding a bit of extra liquid to prevent drying. Top with a fresh sprinkle of cheese and herbs to restore that just-made magic.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely. While short shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best for soaking up the sauce, feel free to substitute with what you have on hand. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as thinner pastas like ziti may cook faster.

What’s the best way to make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta variety! Check the packaging for cook time, as you may need to adjust how long the pasta simmers in the sauce to prevent it from getting mushy.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breast?

Definitely. Add shredded or diced cooked chicken after the pasta has finished cooking, just giving it enough time to warm through in the sauce. This shortcut works wonders for busy nights.

How can I make One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and add extra sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and you’ll still have a savory, satisfying pasta dish worth repeating.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a dinner party?

Yes! Make the complete dish a day ahead, refrigerate, and reheat gently before serving. Right before bringing to the table, add a fresh sprinkle of mozzarella and broil until bubbly, then garnish with fresh herbs for that irresistible look and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering with friends, you can’t go wrong with One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta. With minimal prep, big flavors, and just one pot to clean, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Give it a try — I guarantee it’ll make you the hero of dinner tonight!

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