One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines all the classic flavors of chicken parmesan into a simple, easy-to-make meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal cleanup while delivering a delicious and satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Cleanup – Everything cooks in one pot, reducing the number of dishes to wash.
• Quick and Simple – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Full of Flavor – A rich tomato sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness in every bite.
• Family-Friendly – A meal that kids and adults will both love.
• Customizable – Easily adjust ingredients to suit dietary preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Onion, diced
• Crushed tomatoes
• Chicken broth
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper
• Penne pasta
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh basil, chopped

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
3. Make the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked penne pasta to the pot. Stir well, cover, and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender.
5. Add Chicken and Cheese: Return the cooked chicken to the pot, stirring to combine. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, cover, and let it melt.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Different Pasta: Swap penne for rotini, rigatoni, or any short pasta you prefer.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta instead of regular pasta.
• Extra Crunch: Top with toasted breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken works well. Add it towards the end to prevent overcooking.

What type of cheese is best?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, but you can also use provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally and add extra broth if needed to maintain a saucy consistency.

Can I make this without cheese?

Yes, but it will lose some of its creamy texture. Try using dairy-free cheese as an alternative.

What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a little extra chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them longer to break them down properly.

What other meats can I use?

Ground turkey, Italian sausage, or shrimp can be great substitutes for chicken.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, but cook the pasta separately and stir it in at the end to prevent overcooking.

Conclusion

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delicious, convenient, and family-friendly meal that brings the comforting flavors of classic chicken parmesan to your table with minimal effort. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy it fresh, customize it to your liking, and store leftovers for an easy meal later!

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