One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a simple, comforting dish that brings together all the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan in one convenient pot. Tender chicken pieces, savory marinara sauce, and penne pasta are simmered together with garlic, onions, and Italian seasoning, then topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This easy-to-make, family-friendly dish is perfect for busy weeknights and requires minimal cleanup—just one pot to cook everything!

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, then add the penne pasta. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
6. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, allowing them to melt and combine into the sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped basil.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Different Pasta: You can swap out the penne pasta for other types of pasta, like rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti.
• Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, consider stirring in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms along with the onions and garlic.
• Spicy Version: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for extra spice.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone or gouda, for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stove. If it seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? It’s best to use fresh chicken for even cooking, but if using frozen, ensure it’s thawed before cooking.
2. Can I substitute the penne pasta with another type? Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, but make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the type of pasta.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, simply omit the chicken and replace it with vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant for a vegetarian version.
5. What if I don’t have chicken broth? If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water, though the flavor may be slightly less rich.
6. Can I use homemade marinara sauce? Yes, homemade marinara sauce can be used in place of store-bought for a fresher, personalized flavor.
7. How can I make this dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce, or stir in some hot sauce or chili powder for an extra kick.
8. Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese substitutes like vegan mozzarella and Parmesan to make this recipe dairy-free.
9. How do I know when the pasta is done cooking? The pasta is done when it is tender and cooked through. Taste a piece to ensure it’s al dente (firm to the bite).
10. Can I freeze this dish? This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Store in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or oven. The texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Conclusion

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and convenient meal that combines all the delicious elements of chicken Parmesan in a single pot. With minimal prep and clean-up, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting without the hassle. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or making it for meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

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