Why Make This Recipe
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a winner for busy weeknights. It combines the delicious flavors of chicken parmesan with the ease of one-pot cooking. You get tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and comforting pasta—all cooked together! Plus, kitchen cleanup is a breeze, making it perfect for any home cook.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients:
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped up for topping (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 cup your favorite marinara sauce
- 12 oz penne or rotini noodles
- 4 cups chicken stock
- A sprinkle of salt and pepper, however you like
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound of chicken breasts, diced up
Directions:
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Heat up the olive oil in a big pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced chicken, Italian herbs, chopped garlic, and a bit of salt and pepper. Cook everything, stirring now and then, until there’s no pink left—about 5 to 7 minutes.
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Add the marinara sauce and penne to the pot, then pour in your chicken stock. Turn the heat down low once it starts to bubble.
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Let the pasta and sauce bubble away with a lid on the pot. Give it a stir every now and then for about 12 to 15 minutes, until the noodles are tender and there isn’t much liquid left.
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With the stove off, throw in all the mozzarella and Parmesan. Stir until it’s gooey and blended in.
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Right before diving in, toss some basil on top for a fresh kick. Dish it up while it’s hot and enjoy that melty cheese vibe.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Serve the pasta in bowls with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top if you like. Add some fresh basil for flavor and color. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread to make the meal complete.
How to Store One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat it again, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock if it needs some extra moisture.
Tips to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
- Adjust the cheese to your liking. You can add more mozzarella or Parmesan for extra creaminess.
- Feel free to add some veggies, like spinach or broccoli, during the cooking process for a healthier dish.
Variation
You can swap the chicken for shrimp or sausage for different flavors. Also, try using different types of pasta, such as fusilli or spaghetti, based on what you have at home.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can skip the chicken and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Add mushrooms or your favorite veggies for protein and flavor.
How can I make this recipe spicy?
Add red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic for some heat, or toss in jalapeño slices with the chicken.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to two months in the freezer.