One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty meal that combines the cozy comfort of pasta with the irresistible flavors of chicken parmesan, you are going to absolutely love this One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender chicken, savory tomato sauce, and bubbling cheese, all cooked together in one pot for an easy cleanup and full-flavored experience. Whether you’re cooking for your family or want a fuss-free dish to impress friends, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so special. From the juicy chicken to the rich cheeses and aromatic herbs, every component works together in harmony.

• Olive oil: The base for sautéing the chicken and onions, adding a subtle fruitiness and helping develop beautiful browning.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce wonderfully when diced.
• Diced onion: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch, balancing the acidity of the tomato sauce.
• Minced garlic: Delivers that iconic aromatic punch essential to Italian-inspired dishes.
• Water: Used to cook the pasta right in the pan – no extra pots needed!
• Penne pasta: Holds sauce beautifully and maintains a pleasing bite when cooked just right.
• Jarred pasta sauce: The rich, tomato-based backbone of this recipe that ties flavors together effortlessly.
• Grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick that melts into the sauce and pasta.
• Grated mozzarella cheese: Melts into a creamy, gooey topping that’s pure comfort food.
• Fresh basil and oregano: Bright herbs to finish the dish with fresh, fragrant notes.

How to Make One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Start by warming a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. The olive oil will get the pan ready to beautifully brown your chicken and onions, setting the stage for flavor development that’s crucial to the dish.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken and Onion

Add diced chicken breasts and diced onion to the pan. Cook them together until the chicken turns opaque and the onions become soft and translucent, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step not only cooks the chicken through but also lets the onion release their natural sweetness that balances the tomato sauce later.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Introduce minced garlic into the skillet and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly so it becomes fragrant but doesn’t burn. Garlic adds such a warm, inviting aroma that will make your kitchen smell incredible!

Step 4: Add Water and Pasta

Pour in 1 ½ cups of water followed by the penne pasta. Press down gently on the pasta to submerge it as much as possible. The water will help the pasta cook evenly without needing another pot, which is the magic element behind this one pot meal.

Step 5: Pour in Pasta Sauce

Now, pour the entire jar of pasta sauce over the mixture. Spread it evenly so all the pasta gets coated and the noodles soak up that delicious, tangy flavor as they cook.

Step 6: Bring to a Boil

Turn your heat to medium-high and bring everything to a gentle boil. This step allows the pasta to start absorbing the liquids and flavors while the chicken finishes cooking if needed.

Step 7: Simmer Covered

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a low boil and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook for 15 minutes, allowing the pasta to soften and the sauce to thicken beautifully.

Step 8: Preheat Broiler

While the pasta simmers, turn on your oven’s broiler setting. This will later give your cheese that perfect bubbly, golden finish that’s so irresistible.

Step 9: Check Pasta and Stir Cheese

Remove the lid and test your pasta for doneness. If it’s still slightly firm, cook a few minutes longer. Once ready, stir in ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese to melt into the mixture, enriching the sauce with a deeply savory flavor.

Step 10: Add Remaining Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining parmesan and all the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta. These cheeses create a luscious, gooey crust when broiled.

Step 11: Broil Until Bubbling

Place your skillet under the broiler for about 2 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and starting to turn a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 12: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh basil and oregano on top. Their fresh, herbal notes uplift this hearty dish, and then it’s ready to serve immediately for maximum warmth and flavor.

How to Serve One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil and oregano are classic choices that bring brightness and freshness to the rich pasta. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick or smooth finish depending on your mood.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread that soaks up every last bit of that tomato sauce. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus also make for a colorful and healthy complement.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming dinner party, serve the pasta directly from the skillet for a rustic touch, or plate individual portions topped with extra fresh herbs and a small wedge of lemon for a zesty accent. You can also add a crunchy Parmesan crisp on top for texture contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze right after cooking but before adding the fresh herbs and cheese topping, which can be added fresh after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water added to prevent drying out. If you like melted cheese on top, sprinkle a bit more mozzarella and broil for a few minutes to revive its bubbly charm.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and stay juicy during cooking. Just dice them similarly and adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

Is it possible to use other types of pasta?

Yes, penne pasta is recommended because it holds sauce well, but fusilli, rigatoni, or rotini work beautifully too. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary slightly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Of course! Simply omit the chicken and add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You might want to increase the cooking liquid a bit to ensure the pasta stays moist.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

You can cook all the stovetop steps in a regular pan, then transfer the pasta to a baking dish to add cheese and broil. Just be careful when moving hot ingredients.

How do I adjust the recipe for spiciness?

Add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or sprinkle some chili powder into the sauce for a pleasant heat that complements the cheesy flavors.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe offers the perfect combination of ease, flavor, and comfort all wrapped into one dish. It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that feels a little special with minimal effort. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how this delicious one pot wonder brings everyone to the table smiling and satisfied!

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