One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Introduction

When I first tried this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe, I was looking for something quick, flavorful, and satisfying for a weeknight dinner. What I didn’t expect was how quickly it would become a family favorite. The combination of tender chicken, hearty pasta, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese is the ultimate comfort food. It’s not only incredibly easy to make, but it’s also a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. My family devoured it in no time, and I loved how everything came together in just one pot, saving me time and effort. The cheesy goodness is balanced with the bold flavors of garlic and Italian seasoning, creating a meal that feels indulgent without being too heavy. Whether you’re serving it to your family, hosting a casual dinner, or looking for a dish to impress your friends, this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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

Instructions

Cook the Chicken:

1. In a large pot or skillet (like a Dutch oven), add a drizzle of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced chicken to the pot and season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is mostly cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.

Sauté the Onion and Garlic:

3. In the same pot, add the minced onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.

Add the Sauce and Pasta:

4. Pour in the marinara sauce and fill the empty sauce jar with water. Add the water to the pot and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a strong simmer.

Combine the Ingredients:

5. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot, along with the dried pasta. Stir to combine all the ingredients, then cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the sauce.

Stir in the Cheese:

6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and becomes incorporated into the sauce.

Add More Cheese:

7. Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese over the pasta. Cover the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.

Garnish and Serve:

8. If desired, sprinkle the pasta with additional Italian seasoning. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil, and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: 620 kcal
• Sugar: ~9g
• Sodium: ~900mg
• Fat: ~24g
• Saturated Fat: ~9g
• Unsaturated Fat: ~12g
• Trans Fat: ~0g
• Carbohydrates: ~75g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Protein: ~38g
• Cholesterol: ~85mg

Preparation Time

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

How to Serve

• Serve as a main dish: This chicken Parmesan pasta is filling enough to be the star of the meal. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete dinner.
• Top with extra cheese: For a cheesier version, sprinkle extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top just before serving.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: Adding freshly chopped parsley or basil not only adds color but also enhances the flavor.
• Pair with a drink: This dish pairs well with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, to complement the rich, cheesy flavors.
• Make it a family-style meal: Serve it directly from the pot for a cozy, family-style dinner where everyone can help themselves.

Additional Tips

1. Use lean chicken breast: For a healthier version, opt for skinless, boneless chicken breasts. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
2. Adjust the sauce: If you like a saucier pasta, add more marinara sauce or a bit of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
3. Don’t overcook the pasta: Since the pasta continues to cook in the sauce, keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. The pasta should be al dente when done.
4. Make it spicy: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle them on top before serving.
5. Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, stir in vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers along with the chicken.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or zucchini for a vegetarian version of this pasta dish.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free. Just ensure the marinara sauce is also gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Version: Substitute the pasta with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles for a low-carb option.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier dish, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese to the sauce mixture.
• Spicy Chicken Parmesan: Add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken when you cook it for a spicy twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Side salad: A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic bread: A few slices of crispy garlic bread are perfect for sopping up the marinara sauce.
• Roasted vegetables: Serve roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts to balance the richness of the pasta with some freshness.
• Wine pairing: Pair this dish with a medium-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio for a refreshing contrast.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing leftovers: Store leftover One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake or heat in the microwave.
• Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent the pasta from drying out.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes! You can use any short pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or rotini instead of rigatoni.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle them on top before serving for an extra kick.
4. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
   Yes, you can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken in place of the diced chicken breast.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone, gouda, or any cheese that melts well.
6. How do I prevent the pasta from getting soggy?
   Make sure to stir occasionally while the pasta is cooking and check for doneness to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
7. Can I add more vegetables?
   Yes, feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
8. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce in the slow cooker for 3-4 hours on low. Add the pasta and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
9. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free to make this dish gluten-free.
10. How can I make this recipe lower in fat?
    You can use a leaner cut of chicken, reduce the amount of cheese, and use a lower-fat marinara sauce to cut down on fat.

Conclusion

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a satisfying, easy-to-make dish that brings all the comforting flavors of classic chicken Parmesan into a quick, one-pot meal. With tender chicken, hearty pasta, and gooey melted

cheese, this dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep. The best part is that it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with your loved ones. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a casual dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Print