Easy, Quick Chicken Parmesan Pasta
When you’re craving a comforting dinner but don’t have hours to spare, Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate solution. Packed with flavor, protein, and cheesy goodness, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes—all in a single pan. We’ve crafted a foolproof, restaurant-style recipe that blends the classic flavors of chicken parmesan with the simplicity of a one-pot pasta.
Why Chicken Parmesan Pasta Is a Go-To Weeknight Recipe
- One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup.
- Bold Flavors: Tangy marinara, juicy chicken, and melted cheese.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults love it.
- Fast Prep: Ready in 30 minutes or less.
Ingredients for Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Here’s everything you need for this delicious recipe:
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 12 oz uncooked penne or rotini pasta
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instruction
1. Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5–6 minutes.
2. Add Sauce and Broth
Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift all those flavorful brown bits.
3. Stir in Pasta
Add uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and let simmer for about 13–15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
4. Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is ready, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the pan for another 2–3 minutes to melt the cheese.
5. Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley before serving. Enjoy hot.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grate fresh Parmesan and mozzarella for a creamier finish.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Brown the chicken until golden but don’t cook it all the way through in the beginning. It will finish cooking with the pasta and sauce, staying tender and juicy.
Add Heat if Desired
For a spicy kick, toss in red pepper flakes while simmering the sauce.
Make It Creamy
Want a creamier version? Add ½ cup heavy cream or cream cheese when you add the broth.
Variations and Substitutions
Low-Carb Option
Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles and reduce the broth by half.
Vegetarian Twist
Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or eggplant slices for a satisfying meatless meal.
Gluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free pasta and check that your marinara sauce is certified gluten-free.
Make-Ahead Friendly
Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days, then reheat and cook pasta fresh.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, add a splash of water or broth and microwave for 1–2 minutes.
- Avoid freezing fully cooked pasta as it can become mushy, but you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chicken Parmesan Pasta with:
- Garlic Bread for a crunchy contrast
- Caesar Salad for a fresh bite
- Roasted Vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~580 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fats | 28g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 5g |
Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes! Shred rotisserie chicken and add it after the pasta is cooked to prevent drying it out.
Is it okay to use frozen chicken?
Make sure to thaw completely before cooking. Frozen chicken will release water and affect the sauce’s consistency.
Can I bake this instead of cooking on the stove?
Yes. After adding cheese, transfer the dish to a baking-safe pan, and broil for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
This recipe is designed for maximum impact with minimal effort. The chicken is flavorful, the pasta is perfectly cooked, and the melted cheese ties everything together in a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish. From the stovetop to your table in under half an hour, this easy chicken parmesan pasta hits every note of comfort food perfection.
