Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delicious fusion of crispy chicken, marinara sauce, melted cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. This easy one-pot dish brings the flavors of traditional chicken parmesan into a convenient pasta bake, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
If you love the classic Italian-American favorite, chicken parmesan, this recipe will delight you. Combining tender pasta, juicy chicken, marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella, this dish offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
- Preheat your oven’s broiler. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs (if using) over the top of the pasta.
- Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Additional Tips
- Pasta choice: Use short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini for the best texture.
- Extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian twist.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of marinara sauce to maintain moisture.
FAQs About Chicken Parmesan Pasta
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly. Add it during the final mixing step to prevent overcooking. - What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
You can use any tomato-based pasta sauce or make a quick marinara with canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the pasta through step 4, then cool and refrigerate. Before serving, top with cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and bubbly. - Is there a gluten-free option?
Substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. - What sides go well with this dish?
A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair beautifully with chicken parmesan pasta.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 620 per serving
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 7g
Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredient brands.
Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the perfect blend of classic Italian comfort food and modern convenience. It’s cheesy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy!
