One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a simple, comforting, and flavorful dish that combines all the delicious elements of a traditional chicken Parmesan in a quick and easy one-pot recipe. The tender chicken, seasoned perfectly with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs, is cooked with pasta in marinara sauce and chicken broth. Topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this dish is a family favorite that saves time and cleanup.

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 and cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
4. Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, then add the penne pasta. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. 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 cheese until melted and well combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms along with the onions and garlic for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara sauce to give the dish a little heat.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.
• Use different cheese: If you don’t have mozzarella or Parmesan, you can substitute with provolone, fontina, or any other melting cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use other types of pasta like rigatoni, farfalle, or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the type of pasta used.
2. Can I use frozen chicken? While it’s best to use fresh chicken for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to fully thaw it before cutting and cooking.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve after sitting for a while!
4. How can I make this dish spicier? You can add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or even a bit of hot sauce to spice up the sauce.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as gouda, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
6. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming too soft? Make sure to simmer the pasta just until it is al dente. If needed, check the pasta a minute or two before the suggested cook time.
7. Can I use a different sauce other than marinara? Yes, you can substitute marinara with other tomato-based sauces like arrabbiata or roasted garlic sauce.
8. Can I make this dish without chicken? Yes, you can omit the chicken and use this recipe with just pasta and sauce for a vegetarian version, or substitute with shrimp or turkey.
9. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce? Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works great in this recipe. If you prefer, you can enhance the sauce with extra garlic, herbs, or red pepper flakes.
10. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little broth or water if needed.

Conclusion

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the perfect solution for a delicious, filling meal with minimal cleanup. The combination of tender chicken, pasta, marinara sauce, and melted cheese makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that’s quick and easy to prepare. Whether you stick to the original recipe or add your own variations, this dish will undoubtedly become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

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