Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting combination of chicken, pasta, and cheese, and this Chicken Parmesan Pasta delivers it all in one dish. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a perfectly seasoned tomato sauce, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I discovered this recipe during a hectic week when I needed something quick yet hearty for dinner. It’s now a family favorite, appearing on our table whenever we crave something cozy and satisfying. Let me show you how to make it your next go-to meal.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite comfort food. This Chicken Parmesan Pasta is everything you want in a meal: delicious, easy, and packed with flavor.

First, it’s unbelievably quick to make. From prep to table in just about 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver on busy nights when you don’t have hours to spare in the kitchen.

This dish is budget-friendly too. Using staple ingredients like pasta, chicken, and marinara sauce, you can feed a family of four for a fraction of the cost of takeout.

Best of all, this recipe is a one-pan wonder! That’s right—less cleanup without sacrificing flavor. It’s perfect for weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without a sink full of dishes.

Finally, this dish offers restaurant-quality flavors at home. With gooey mozzarella, tangy marinara, and golden breadcrumbs, it’s the ultimate comfort meal made fresh in your own kitchen.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Chicken Parmesan Pasta lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Each element is carefully selected to create the perfect balance of taste and texture.

Chicken: For this recipe, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook quickly and evenly. If you prefer, you can even use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.

Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni work best here. Their ridges hold onto the marinara sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Feel free to use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta if needed.

Marinara Sauce: A good-quality marinara sauce is key to the rich flavor of this dish. Whether you use homemade or store-bought, choose one with a robust, tangy taste.

Cheese: A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese gives this dish its signature gooey and cheesy topping. Grate fresh Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

Breadcrumbs: A sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs adds the perfect crunchy topping. Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor or make your own by toasting panko in a bit of butter.

If you have a large oven-safe skillet, this recipe can transition seamlessly from stovetop to oven for the final broil, making it both convenient and versatile.

How To Make This Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Creating this mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan Pasta is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the steps to make it perfectly every time.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it’s just shy of al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining—it’s a lifesaver for loosening the sauce later.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté your chicken pieces, seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and fully cooked, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, pour in your marinara sauce, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Stir in the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce slightly, then return the chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix until everything is well combined. Sprinkle the mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed across the top.

For the final touch, scatter breadcrumbs over the cheese layer and broil the skillet in the oven for 3-5 minutes. Watch carefully as it browns—you’re looking for a golden, bubbly topping.

The entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy dinner with minimal effort.

Storage Options

This Chicken Parmesan Pasta is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigeration: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Place the pasta in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or marinara sauce to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe means you can customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to try:

• Protein Swap: Use ground chicken, turkey, or even shrimp instead of diced chicken.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for some heat.
• Cheese Alternatives: Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Option: Use spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash in place of pasta.

Don’t be afraid to get creative—this dish is a blank canvas for your culinary ideas. Experiment and make it your own!

Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your household. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again. Enjoy!

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