If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal that combines the comfort of chicken parmesan with the convenience of one-pot cooking, then this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the perfect recipe for you. With tender, juicy chicken, al dente penne pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish has all the flavors of classic chicken parmesan but with a fraction of the effort. No need for breading or frying the chicken; everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a simple but delicious dinner for friends, this dish is sure to impress.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With minimal prep work and just one pot, you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready in under 40 minutes. This dish combines the savory taste of seasoned chicken with the tangy flavor of marinara sauce, complemented by the rich, melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. If you’re a fan of easy, comforting pasta meals, this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the epitome of comfort food that doesn’t require hours of preparation or cooking. This recipe combines the best parts of chicken parmesan—savory chicken, hearty pasta, and cheesy goodness—into one simple pot. The fact that it’s made in just one pan makes it perfect for busy nights when you want to prepare a delicious dinner without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. The pasta cooks right in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors, making it even more flavorful. Plus, the melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top add a creamy, cheesy finish that’s irresistible. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or someone who just loves easy meals, this dish will quickly become a weeknight favorite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Italian seasoning
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Marinara sauce
Chicken broth
Penne pasta

For the Topping:

Shredded mozzarella cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta to make this dish gluten-free. The cooking process will remain the same.
Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and substitute with a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
Cheese Lovers: Add more cheese! Try a combination of mozzarella, provolone, and ricotta for an extra cheesy experience.
Herb Variations: Switch up the Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This will ensure the chicken is flavorful from the inside out.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage as it will cook further in the sauce. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pot, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic can become bitter if overcooked.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Pasta

Stir in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, and penne pasta. Bring the mixture to a simmer. The pasta will absorb the flavors of the sauce as it cooks, so make sure it’s well-coated.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Back In

Slice the cooked chicken into strips or cubes, then add it back into the pot. Stir everything together, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the pot again and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become gooey.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese has melted, garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: If your pot is too small, consider cooking the chicken in batches to ensure it gets a nice sear.
Chicken Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken breasts with boneless thighs for a juicier option.
Add Vegetables: If you’d like to add some vegetables, consider throwing in some spinach, bell peppers, or onions along with the garlic.
Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the pasta while it’s simmering. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Cheese Choices: If you’re looking for a richer flavor, try using a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone.

How to Serve

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for an extra treat. A light Caesar salad with fresh greens and a tangy dressing will complement the rich flavors of the pasta. For a more indulgent side, serve the pasta with homemade garlic bread or crusty baguette slices to soak up the extra marinara sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making the leftovers just as delicious as when it was first made.

Freezing

This recipe can be frozen, but the pasta might lose some of its texture after freezing. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta in a pot on the stove over low heat. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened during storage. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta, like fusilli or rigatoni, in place of penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.

2. Can I make this without chicken?

Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach as a substitute.

3. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly fine for this recipe. However, you can also make your own homemade marinara sauce for a more personal touch.

4. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first to ensure even cooking. If you’re using frozen chicken, cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

5. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

While this recipe is designed for stovetop cooking, you can adapt it for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken in a pan, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

6. How do I make it spicier?

To add some heat to the dish, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a sliced jalapeño to the garlic when you sauté it.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, gouda, or ricotta for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices for chicken parmesan.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free penne pasta and check the chicken broth and marinara sauce labels to ensure they are gluten-free.

9. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?

While boneless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, you can use bone-in chicken breasts. Just make sure to cook them through before adding the pasta, and remove the bones before serving.

10. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cheese, then refrigerate it and bake or reheat it with the cheese melted just before serving.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta brings all the comforting flavors of the classic chicken parmesan into one easy-to-make, low-maintenance meal. The combination of seasoned chicken, pasta cooked in a flavorful marinara sauce, and melty cheese creates a satisfying dish that will please everyone at the table. With just one pot and minimal prep, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner option that’s both delicious and convenient. Whether you’re making it for your family or serving it for guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite!