One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

If you’re searching for an easy yet flavorful dinner recipe that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine, look no further than One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta. This dish is the perfect blend of crispy chicken, gooey melted mozzarella, and savory marinara sauce all cooked together in one pot. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also saves you time on cleanup – making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

This recipe is particularly suited for anyone who loves comfort food but is short on time. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent trying to juggle multiple tasks, or simply someone who loves a hearty meal, this one-pot dish is both easy and incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a weeknight dinner dream. Here’s why:

• Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge.
• Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pot, you won’t need to worry about washing extra pans.
• Family-Friendly: This is the type of meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters. Who doesn’t love pasta and chicken with melted cheese?
• Time-Saving: Instead of cooking the chicken and pasta separately, everything cooks together in the same pot, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Before you dive into making this delicious dish, make sure you have the right kitchen tools:

• Large Dutch Oven or Skillet – A deep, wide pan for all-in-one cooking.
• Tongs or Spatula – For flipping and handling the chicken pieces.
• Chef’s Knife – To chop the chicken and garlic.
• Cutting Board – For chopping.
• Grater – For shredding mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accuracy with your ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon – For stirring the pasta and sauce mixture.

Ingredients for One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavor-packed meal:

• Chicken Breasts (2 large) – Boneless, skinless, and sliced thin.
• Pasta (8 ounces) – Penne or spaghetti, but any type of pasta works.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – To cook the chicken and sauté garlic.
• Breadcrumbs (1 cup) – For that crispy, golden crust on the chicken.
• Egg (1 large) – To bind the breadcrumbs.
• All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup) – For dredging the chicken before coating with breadcrumbs.
• Garlic (3 cloves) – Fresh, minced garlic for flavor.
• Marinara Sauce (2 cups) – Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce.
• Chicken Broth (2 cups) – To help cook the pasta and add flavor.
• Heavy Cream (1/2 cup) – For creaminess and richness in the sauce.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups) – For melting over the pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup) – For that extra savory flavor.
• Italian Seasoning (1 tablespoon) – A blend of herbs to enhance the dish.

Step-by-Step Directions for One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

1. Prepare the Chicken
Begin by slicing the chicken breasts into thinner pieces. This ensures the chicken cooks quickly and evenly. Dredge the chicken in flour, dip it into the egg, and coat it with breadcrumbs.

2. Sear the Chicken
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken pieces and cook them until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

3. Cook the Garlic and Pasta
In the same pot, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Add the pasta, chicken broth, and marinara sauce. Stir to combine, bringing everything to a simmer. Let the pasta cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender.

4. Add the Cream
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream to make the sauce creamy and rich. Let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes to combine the flavors.

5. Reintroduce the Chicken
Place the crispy chicken pieces back into the pot and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the top. Cover the pot and let it cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the cheese is melted and everything is bubbling, serve the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta immediately. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.

Helpful Tips and Variations

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Try Different Chicken: If you want a juicier cut, try chicken thighs instead of breasts. They’ll add more flavor and moisture to the dish.

• Swap the Pasta: While penne works best, feel free to use spaghetti, fusilli, or any pasta you have on hand.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for an extra kick. You can also top the dish with a few slices of spicy sausage.
• Add Veggies: Chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added to the pot along with the garlic for more color and flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

• Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or warm it on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

Food and Drink Pairings

To complement this delicious Italian dish, try pairing it with:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the rich sauce.
• Green Salad: A simple salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Wine: A light red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, pairs wonderfully with the tomato and cheese flavors.
• Beer: Opt for a crisp lager or pilsner to balance the meal’s richness.

FAQs About One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Cook it as directed, then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat when ready to serve.

Q2: What pasta works best?
Penne, spaghetti, or any other short pasta works great. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type you choose.

Q3: Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the chicken with a vegetarian protein like tofu or extra vegetables such as eggplant or mushrooms.

Q4: How can I make this spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or include spicy sausage for an added kick.

Q5: Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Conclusion:

This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is everything you need for a quick, delicious, and comforting meal. The combination of tender chicken, creamy pasta, and gooey cheese is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Plus, with minimal cleanup and a recipe that’s easy to scale, it’s perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

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