Description
This One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich tomato sauce all topped with gooey melted cheese. Made in a single pot, this comforting dish is weeknight-friendly, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. Enjoy the classic flavors of chicken parmesan in an easy, all-in-one meal that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Pasta and Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz/680g) jar marinara sauce
- 2 1/2 cups (600ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz (225g) penne or rotini pasta, uncooked
For Topping
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season and Cook Chicken: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Season the chicken cubes with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until just browned (they donโt need to cook through). Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sautรฉ Garlic: In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sautรฉ for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth. Stir to combine, then add the uncooked pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Pasta with Chicken: Return the browned chicken (and any juices) to the pot. Stir, reduce heat to a simmer, and cover. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the chicken is cooked through. If needed, add a splash more broth or water during cooking to prevent sticking.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan generously over the pasta. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and let rest, uncovered, for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
- Use your favorite pasta shape โ penne, rotini, or even spaghetti (broken in halves) will work.
- If the pasta absorbs too much liquid before itโs cooked, add splashes of broth or water as needed.
- For a crispy topping, broil the cheese-topped pasta for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 940mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 88mg