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
Scale
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.
