Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Easy One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the perfect healthy dinner! This delicious one-pot pasta recipe comes together quickly and is packed with flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this dish will surely become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This recipe is ready in just 50 minutes, making it a perfect choice for those busy nights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite is loaded with savory chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese.
• Meal Prep Friendly: The leftovers are great for lunch or dinner the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Chicken Parmesan Pasta successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Using the right equipment not only makes cooking easier but also ensures that your dish turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven or pot: Ideal for even heat distribution, ensuring your pasta cooks perfectly without sticking.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot, helping to prevent any burning at the bottom.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors in your dish.

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Ingredients

Easy One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the best healthy dinner! This One Pot Pasta Recipe is delicious, quick to make and loaded with flavor!

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 tablespoon garlic (minced)
• ¾ cup panko bread crumbs
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1” chunks)
• 1 cup minced yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (3 cloves)

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Pasta Ingredients

• 1 lb dried medium pasta (farfalle, campanelle, rigatoni)
• 24 ounces marinara sauce (low or no salt added)
• 4 cups water

Cheese Topping

• 2.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

Garnish

• Torn fresh basil (optional)

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Panko Topping

In a large Dutch oven or pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, panko bread crumbs, and a pinch of black pepper. Toast the bread crumbs for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside. Wipe any remaining crumbs out with a paper towel.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Raise the heat to medium-high and add olive oil. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Once the pot is heated, add the chicken to the pan.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Sauté the chicken for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. Next, add minced onion, garlic, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir together and cook for an additional 3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add dry pasta, marinara sauce, and water into the pot. Stir everything well before covering.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Bring the liquid to a boil then reduce heat to medium. Cook covered for about 6 minutes or half of what the pasta package recommends. Stir occasionally to avoid scorching on the bottom.

Step 6: Let It Rest

After cooking for 6 minutes, take off the lid and remove from heat. The pasta will continue cooking as it sits and absorbs more liquid.

Step 7: Add Cheese & Serve

Once it has rested for about 5 minutes off heat, stir in mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately topped with toasted garlic panko bread crumbs for an added crunch.

With these simple steps followed carefully, you’ll be enjoying a comforting bowl of Chicken Parmesan Pasta in no time!

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Serving Chicken Parmesan Pasta is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this dish that will impress your family and friends.

With a Fresh Green Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Toasted garlic bread complements the pasta beautifully. Spread butter and minced garlic on slices of bread and bake until golden.

Top with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, adding an extra layer of mozzarella or grated Parmesan on top right before serving creates a deliciously gooey finish.

Garnish with Fresh Basil

• Torn fresh basil leaves not only enhance presentation but also add an aromatic touch that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• A side of roasted seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provides color and nutrition to your plate.

Accompany with a Light Dessert

• Consider finishing the meal with a light dessert like sorbet or fruit salad to cleanse the palate after the rich pasta dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Perfecting Chicken Parmesan Pasta is simple when you follow these helpful tips. With just a few adjustments, you can elevate your dish to new heights.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh ingredients such as ripe tomatoes for marinara and good-quality cheese to enhance the overall flavor.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Follow package instructions but reduce cooking time slightly since the pasta continues to cook off heat. Aim for al dente texture.

• Season Generously: Season each layer of the dish well, from the chicken to the sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

• Mix Cheeses for Depth: Combine mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a richer taste experience that balances creaminess with sharpness.

• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Parmesan Pasta can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some great options:

1. Caprese Salad: Layers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil create a refreshing complement to the pasta.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and crunch while balancing out the richness of the pasta.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for an excellent appetizer that’s light but flavorful.
4. Caesar Salad (without anchovies): Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy dressing topped with croutons provides a classic contrast to your main dish.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring sweetness that pairs nicely with savory chicken pasta.
6. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A quick stir-fry of colorful vegetables offers additional nutrients while keeping things light and delicious.
7. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort while complementing the Italian flavors of your meal.
8. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts until crispy adds a satisfying crunch that works well alongside your pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Parmesan Pasta, avoiding common errors can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding excessive water can lead to a watery pasta. Always measure the liquid as per the recipe to achieve the perfect consistency.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta for too long can make it mushy. Follow the recommended cooking time and check for doneness a minute early.
• Skipping the Toasting Step: Neglecting to toast the panko bread crumbs results in a lack of crunch. Make sure to toast them until golden brown for added texture.
• Not Stirring Enough: Failing to stir during cooking can lead to sticking or burning. Stir occasionally to keep everything mixed and prevent scorching.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to season your dish properly can leave it bland. Taste as you cook and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or herbs.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the pasta is cooled completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Chicken Parmesan Pasta

• Freeze chicken parmesan pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Separate portions into individual servings for easy reheating.

Reheating Chicken Parmesan Pasta

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer pasta to a microwave-safe bowl, cover lightly with a paper towel, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently while warming until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Chicken Parmesan Pasta.

Can I use whole wheat pasta for Chicken Parmesan Pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta is a great alternative that adds fiber and nutrients without changing the flavor significantly.

How can I customize my Chicken Parmesan Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan Pasta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish, balancing out its richness.

Is Chicken Parmesan Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in both the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Parmesan Pasta is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients according to your taste. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!