Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet Recipe

If you are craving a comfort-food favorite that comes together fast and satisfies big, the Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is your new go-to. This recipe blends tender chicken, a rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one pan, topped with melted cheese that brings a warm, savory finish. Discover a quick and tasty Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners packed with cheesy, savory goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze after a busy day.
• Flavor-packed: Juicy chicken melds with tangy tomato sauce and gooey cheese for a mouthwatering bite every time.
• Quick to make: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when time is limited.
• Family-friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike, satisfying a variety of taste buds in one dish.
• Customizable: Easily adapted to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability without losing its charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet are simple yet essential, each playing a role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From fresh garlic to shredded mozzarella, every component enhances this dish’s irresistible presence on your dinner table.

• Boneless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and tender bites.
• Olive oil: Brings out the richness in the chicken and provides a golden crust.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced to infuse the sauce with aromatic warmth.
• Tomato sauce: A flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together with a zesty touch.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates the sauce with classic Mediterranean flavors.
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth while cooking the pasta right in the skillet.
• Uncooked pasta: Penne or rigatoni works best to soak up the sauce perfectly.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that signature cheesy topping.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a sharp, nutty finish.
• Fresh basil leaves: Garnishes and adds a fresh, vibrant note to the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance all flavors.

Variations for Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

The best part about this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is how easy it is to tailor it to what’s in your fridge or your personal taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up anytime you want.

• Swap the chicken for turkey: Use ground turkey or turkey breast for a leaner protein alternative.
• Add vegetables: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Use gluten-free pasta: Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities without compromising flavor.
• Try a spicy twist: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce for a kick.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace chicken with hearty eggplant or tofu for a meat-free version.

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How to Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Start by cutting chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté garlic and seasonings

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn. Stir in Italian seasoning to release the herbs’ flavors into the oil.

Step 3: Build the sauce and cook the pasta

Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the uncooked pasta directly into the skillet, pushing it down to submerge in the sauce. Cover with a lid and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Step 4: Combine chicken and cheese

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir it into the pasta and sauce mixture. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and allow the cheese to melt, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Finish and garnish

Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly torn basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

• Choose the right pasta: Use short-cut pastas like penne or rigatoni to hold more sauce and create a balanced bite.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns properly without steaming.
• Use fresh cheese for best melting: Shredded mozzarella from a block melts better than pre-shredded for a creamier texture.
• Simmer sauce gently: Keep the heat low when cooking pasta in the sauce to prevent burning or sticking to the pan.
• Let it rest before serving: Allow the skillet to sit off heat for a few minutes to let flavors meld and cheese set slightly.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley immediately brightens the dish and adds a lovely herbal nuance. A dash of extra Parmesan right on top invites that extra cheesy goodness with every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty skillet meal with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also a perfect match to scoop up any remaining sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve directly in the skillet for a rustic touch that keeps the dish warm and inviting. Alternatively, plate portions onto shallow bowls for an elegant presentation, topped with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully without losing its flavor or texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before adding cheese on top, then add the cheese during reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over low heat to gently warm through, adding a splash of water or broth if the pasta seems dry. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to keep the cheese gooey.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well and add a bit more juiciness and flavor; just adjust cooking time slightly until they’re cooked through.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese alternatives or simply omit the cheese to keep it lighter.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or ziti are ideal because they hold sauce well and cook evenly in the skillet.

Can I prepare the sauce from scratch?

Definitely! Fresh homemade tomato sauce works beautifully and can elevate the dish, though store-bought sauce saves time without sacrificing flavor.

How spicy is the Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet?

It’s generally mild and kid-friendly, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you want to turn up the heat.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is a fantastic way to bring home a comforting classic with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal on the table in no time. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation!

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