One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the perfect dish for anyone seeking a warm, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or looking for a dish to impress friends, this recipe combines the delicious flavors of chicken parmesan with the ease of a one-pot pasta dish. With tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, it creates a delightful harmony of taste and texture that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
A Personal Story Behind My One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table to enjoy hearty meals together. One of our favorites was chicken parmesan, which always brought smiles and laughter. Over the years, I sought ways to simplify the cooking process without sacrificing flavor. This one-pot version became a family staple, allowing us to enjoy our cherished dish while spending less time in the kitchen. Now, I share this recipe with you so you can create your own memorable moments around the table.
What Makes This One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe Special?
This recipe shines due to its simplicity and the delightful combination of flavors. It’s not only quick to prepare, but it also requires minimal cleanup since everything is cooked in one pot. The juicy chicken, aromatic spices, and melted cheese come together to create an irresistible dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. Plus, it’s customizable: feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap in different cheeses for a personal touch!
The Full One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 medium yellow onion, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 oz dried short-cut pasta (like rigatoni)
- 24 oz jar marinara sauce
- Water (to fill the empty marinara sauce jar)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Additional dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley and/or basil, minced for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot or skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken is mostly cooked. This step will help lock in the flavors. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
- Add the minced onion and garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Pour in the marinara sauce, then fill the empty sauce jar with water and add it to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a strong simmer.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot along with the dried pasta. Stir well, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes until the pasta reaches your desired tenderness. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese. This will enhance the creaminess of the dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese on top of the dish and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey. For an extra touch, you can optionally broil the dish for a few minutes to achieve a crispy topping.
- Optionally, sprinkle with additional Italian seasoning and garnish with minced parsley or basil before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. If you want to add more vegetables, consider tossing in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini during the cooking process. You can also experiment with different cheeses—try provolone or fontina for a unique flavor twist. Serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley elevates the presentation and adds a burst of freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta works well and adds a nutty flavor along with extra fiber.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta after it has cooled. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings, perfect for a family meal or leftovers for lunch!
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per Serving: 400
Servings: 6
One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot or skillet For cooking the pasta and chicken.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 /2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 medium yellow onion, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 oz dried short-cut pasta (like rigatoni)
- 24 oz jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 /2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 optional additional dried Italian seasoning
- 1 to taste Fresh parsley and/or basil, minced for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the diced chicken seasoned with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder for about 5 minutes until mostly cooked. Transfer to a plate.
- Sauté minced onion and garlic in the same pot for 2-3 minutes. Add marinara sauce and fill the jar with water; add to pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Return chicken to the pot with dried pasta. Stir, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Stir in parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and cook for 2-3 minutes until melted.
- Garnish with Italian seasoning and fresh herbs if desired.