If you have ever dreamed of capturing the comforting flavors of classic Italian Chicken Parmesan but in a cozy, one-pot pasta dish, this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Imagine tender, seasoned chicken mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, drenched in rich marinara sauce, and topped with golden, bubbly mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Every forkful delivers that nostalgic taste with the ease of a weeknight meal, making it irresistible whether you’re cooking for family or friends. Let me show you how simple ingredients come together to create a feast that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in building flavor, texture, and color. From the tender chicken to the rich cheeses and fresh herbs, every element is essential to crafting a dish that tastes like it has hours of love behind it.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Perfect for quick cooking and even flavor absorption.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to brown the chicken beautifully while adding a fruity richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings classic Italian flavors front and center.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic punch without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all flavors.
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta: Tubular shapes that hold the sauce and cheese perfectly.
- 3 cups marinara sauce: The rich tomato base that ties the entire dish together.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water: Keeps the sauce from getting too thick and infuses gentle savory notes.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey pockets that bring cheesy delight.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers sharp, nutty depth.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional): Adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous brightness.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping): Creates a crispy, golden crust if you opt to bake.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for topping): Helps the breadcrumbs toast to perfection.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until just al dente. Don’t overcook it here because it will continue to cook later when combined with the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the flavorful chicken and sauce. This step is key for ensuring your pasta has the perfect bite.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces generously with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken until it is beautifully golden and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. This golden crust adds depth and a lovely texture that will be delicious mixed with the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Add the Sauce and Broth
Pour the marinara sauce and chicken broth (or water) into the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This step helps the sauce thicken slightly and the broth infuses a subtle savoriness, creating the perfect base for your pasta.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheeses
Add the reserved cooked pasta into the skillet and give everything a good toss to coat the noodles in that rich sauce. Stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese so that they melt throughout the dish, creating luscious, cheesy pockets in every bite.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Finish Cooking
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. If you want to add a crispy twist, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle that evenly over the dish. Cover and let it cook on low heat until the cheese melts. For an extra golden and bubbly finish, transfer it to a 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving for that beautiful hint of green and fresh aroma.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil or parsley is a delightful topping that adds a touch of vibrancy and a burst of herbal fragrance. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the dish to restaurant-quality presentation with minimal effort. Don’t underestimate how garnishes can brighten both the plate and the palate.
Side Dishes
Serve this hearty Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe alongside a crisp Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also pairs wonderfully to sop up any delicious leftover sauce, making the meal feel complete and extra satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For family dinners, serve this dish straight from the skillet for that cozy, rustic feel. For dinner parties, consider plating the pasta neatly in wide, shallow bowls and top with a sprig of fresh herbs and a light dusting of Parmesan. You can also portion it into individual casseroles for a crowd-pleasing presentation everyone will appreciate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Parmesan Pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal. When storing, try to separate any breadcrumb toppings to maintain their crunch.
Freezing
This pasta dish freezes well, too. Prepare the recipe up to the baking step, then cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed for fresh-from-the-oven goodness.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, covering loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help restore its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni are ideal because they hold sauce well, you can swap for fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a vegetarian twist. The sauce and cheeses provide plenty of flavor to keep it satisfying.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble everything up to the point of baking and keep it refrigerated. When you’re ready, bake it fresh for warm, melty perfection.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic — mozzarella offers meltiness while Parmesan gives sharpness. Using freshly grated cheeses will give you the best flavor and texture.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety and use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you choose to add the crunchy topping.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and satisfying about this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe that makes it perfect for any night of the week. It’s easy to make, packed with classic Italian flavors, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. So go ahead, give it a try, and treat yourself to a dish that feels homemade with every bite. Trust me, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
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Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken pieces with pasta in a rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Finished with a golden breadcrumb topping, this Italian-American classic offers a comforting and flavorful main course perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Base and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
Cheese and Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
- Add Sauce and Simmer: Pour the marinara sauce and chicken broth into the skillet with the chicken. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce and chicken. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well.
- Prepare Topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top of the pasta mixture. If using, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the cheese layer.
- Melt Cheese and Brown Topping: Cover the skillet and cook on low heat until the cheese melts completely. Alternatively, transfer the skillet or baking dish to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10 minutes or until the top is nicely browned and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a crispy topping, bake the pasta with the breadcrumb mixture in the oven as directed.
- To make this dish ahead, prepare it up to the baking step and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken as a shortcut to save cooking time.
