If you’re looking for a quick, comforting dinner that brings classic Italian flavors to your table without a mountain of dishes, this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe is for you. This recipe combines the deliciousness of chicken Parmesan with the convenience of a one-pot pasta dish. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for busy nights when you crave a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why We Love This Recipe
One-pot meals are a lifesaver for anyone juggling a busy schedule or simply wanting to streamline their cooking routine. This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta brings together the best of Italian-inspired cuisine with just a handful of ingredients, most of which you might already have in your pantry. Here’s why it’s a household favorite:
- Minimal Cleanup: Using just one pot means fewer dishes to wash, making post-dinner cleanup a breeze.
- Comfort Food Favorite: This recipe delivers all the comfort of a traditional chicken Parmesan with melty mozzarella and savory marinara sauce.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a perfect recipe for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
- Customizable: You can adjust seasonings and garnishes to suit your taste, making this dish as mild or as flavorful as you like.
Ingredients
- 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 medium yellow onion, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 oz dried short-cut pasta (e.g., rigatoni)
- 24 oz jar of marinara sauce (e.g., Newman’s Own)
- Water to fill the empty marinara sauce jar
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Additional dried Italian seasoning, optional
- Fresh parsley and/or basil, minced, for garnish
How to Make This Recipe
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken pieces, season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and cook until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the minced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Add the Pasta and Marinara Sauce: Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the marinara sauce. Fill the empty marinara sauce jar with water and add it to the pot. Add the pasta, stirring to make sure everything is well combined.
- Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the sauce. If the mixture becomes too thick or the pasta isn’t cooked through, add a little more water as needed.
- Add the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top. Stir until the cheeses are melted and evenly incorporated into the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, taste for additional seasoning, and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot, and enjoy your homemade, comforting bowl of Chicken Parmesan Pasta!
Success Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Short-cut pasta, like rigatoni or penne, works best for this recipe. These types of pasta hold up well in a one-pot dish and soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce as the pasta cooks, adding small amounts of water if needed. You want the sauce to be thick but not dry.
- Layering Flavor with Cheese: Mozzarella brings creaminess, while Parmesan adds a nutty, savory note. Don’t skimp on either, as they bring depth to the dish.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh herbs add brightness to this comforting meal. Parsley or basil are classic options, but feel free to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Storage
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a saucepan over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of water or extra marinara sauce if the pasta has absorbed too much of the liquid during storage.
Notes
- Chicken Alternatives: If you prefer, swap the chicken for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different take on this dish.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, leave out the chicken and add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle them on top before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the recipe
- Calories: 450 kcal (approximate)
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and will vary depending on the exact ingredients used.)
FAQs
- Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta?
- Yes! Whole wheat pasta is a great choice for adding extra fiber. Just keep in mind that whole wheat pasta may take a bit longer to cook and may need a bit more water.
- Can I Add Vegetables?
- Absolutely! Veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms are great additions and add extra nutrition to the meal. Simply add them in during step 3 with the marinara sauce.
- What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
- The easiest way is in the microwave, but you can also warm it up in a saucepan with a splash of water or marinara sauce to keep it moist.
- Can I Use Homemade Marinara Sauce?
- Definitely! If you have homemade marinara sauce, go ahead and use it. You’ll need about 24 oz, or 3 cups, of sauce.
Conclusion
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a true lifesaver for weeknight dinners. With minimal cleanup and a combination of cheesy, saucy goodness, it brings all the comfort of classic Italian flavors right to your table. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this delicious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!