One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a fantastic dish that brings comfort and convenience together. Imagine a hearty meal pulling together all your favorite elements of classic chicken parmesan—crispy chicken, rich marinara, and gooey cheese—all made in one pot. That means less mess and more time to enjoy with family or friends. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it a reliable choice for busy weeknights. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this easy recipe will guide you through every step. The best part? It’s so good that everyone at the table will be asking for seconds! Let’s explore why this recipe stands out and how you can turn your kitchen into a cozy Italian eatery tonight.

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
• Ingredients
• Cooking Instructions
• Prepare the Chicken
• Sauté Onion and Garlic
• Add Marinara and Water
• Combine Chicken and Pasta
• Add Cheeses
• Final Touches
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Storage Tips
• Pairing Ideas
• FAQs
• More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why This Recipe Works

One of the best things about One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is its clever combination of classic chicken parmesan flavors with the convenience of a one-pot meal. You get all the tasty goodness without the hassle of multiple pans and dishes. This recipe allows the rich flavors to meld beautifully while keeping cleanup to a minimum. Whether you’re a busy parent or someone who just wants a hearty weeknight meal, this recipe doesn’t skimp on flavor or comfort. Plus, putting everything in one pot means less time spent scrubbing later—who doesn’t love that?

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

This dish shines for its simplicity. Easy preparation ensures that anyone can whip it up at home, regardless of cooking skill. Even novice cooks will feel accomplished. It’s perfect for picky eaters, too! The cheesy richness appeals to just about everyone, making it an excellent choice for families. Additionally, it’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste. Want a little more heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes. Prefer more veggies? Feel free to add a handful of spinach or bell peppers. The options are endless!

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 your favorite marinara sauce (e.g. Newman’s Own)
• Water to fill the empty marinara sauce jar
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Additional dried Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley and/or basil, minced for garnish

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Start by choosing a large pot or skillet, preferably a Dutch oven for this dish. Drizzle some olive oil into the pot and heat it up over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken to the hot oil and season everything with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is almost cooked through. When done, remove it from the pot and set aside.

Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, without cleaning the pot, toss in the minced onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and the kitchen begins to smell amazing.

Add Marinara and Water

Now, pour in the marinara sauce straight from the jar. To get every last bit out, fill that empty jar with water and add it to the pot as well. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling nicely, reduce the heat and let it simmer strongly.

Combine Chicken and Pasta

After the sauce is simmering, return the chicken to the pot. Next, stir in the dried pasta of your choice. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for around 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it to make sure the pasta reaches your preferred level of doneness.

Add Cheeses

When the pasta is cooked just right, it’s time to stir in the parmesan cheese along with 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese. Stir until it’s all melted and creamy. Then, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, covering it all. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until it turns gooey and bubbly.

Final Touches

For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some additional Italian seasoning if you like. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and/or basil for a lovely finish before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta alongside a fresh side salad. This adds a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta. Alternatively, pair it with some crusty garlic bread to really indulge.

Tips for Success

To get the best results, make sure to dice the chicken into uniform pieces. This helps ensure everything cooks evenly. Also, keep a close eye on the pasta so it doesn’t overcook; you can adjust the timing based on the type of pasta you choose.

Variations

If you want a twist, consider substituting grilled chicken for a smoky flavor. Or, swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier version or to accommodate diet restrictions.

Storage Tips

Have some leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to reheat, microwaving is easy, or you can warm it on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water to keep it from drying out.

Pairing Ideas

Pair this dish with a light red wine like Chianti, which perfectly complements the chicken and sauce flavors. For a fresh and zesty side, serve it alongside a Caesar salad.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of pasta for this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to choose any short pasta you have, like penne or rotini.

2. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
For sure! Just skip the chicken and load it up with your favorite veggies instead.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you want some heat, add red pepper flakes with the chicken while cooking or use a spicy marinara sauce.

4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, it can be made a day ahead, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for the best taste and texture.

5. What can I do with leftovers?
Serve them as is, or repurpose them as a filling for stuffed peppers or quesadillas for a fun twist.

This One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a winner for any weeknight dinner. Blending classic flavors into a comforting meal, it requires minimal effort, while its mouthwatering aroma and cheesy goodness make it a crowd-pleaser. Prepare to be impressed by this simple yet delicious recipe that brings everyone together at the table. Enjoy the warmth and joy of sharing a meal made with love!

More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:

• Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
• Garlic Butter Salmon
• Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad
• Cheesy Baked Asparagus

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