There’s something truly magical about a dish that combines comfort, convenience, and incredible flavor all in one pot, and that’s exactly why I’m so excited to share this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe with you. Imagine tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, garlicky marinara sauce all mingling together with melty mozzarella and sharp Parmesan cheese—this recipe brings all those classic Chicken Parmesan vibes into a glorious, fuss-free meal that’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough to impress anyone at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe calls for simple ingredients you might already have on hand or can easily grab at the store. Each element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the tender chicken to the flavorful herbs, and of course the melty cheeses that tie everything together.
- Chicken breasts: Diced into bite-sized pieces to cook quickly and absorb all the delicious sauce.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds that warm, comforting Italian flavor we all crave.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes without overpowering the dish.
- Yellow onion: Minced finely to bring a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic cloves: Minced fresh for that bright, aromatic punch.
- Dried short-cut pasta: Rigatoni or similar, perfect for catching the sauce in every bite.
- Marinara sauce: The heart of the dish, full of rich tomatoes and herbs.
- Water: Used to fill the marinara jar and add just the right amount of liquid for cooking the pasta.
- Mozzarella cheese: Shredded, for creamy, gooey melty goodness layered throughout the dish.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated finely to add sharpness and umami complexity.
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings to balance and highlight all flavors.
- Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped and sprinkled on top to add freshness and a pop of color.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in your favorite large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken seasoned with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Cook the chicken for about five minutes until it’s mostly cooked through and starting to get a bit of color. Removing the chicken now ensures it stays tender and juicy once mixed with the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same pot, add your minced onion and garlic. Sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, releasing their sweet aromatic flavor that forms the delicious base of the sauce.
Step 3: Add Marinara Sauce and Water
Pour in the jar of marinara sauce, then fill the empty jar with water and add that in as well. Stir everything together and bring it to a rolling boil before reducing to a strong simmer. This step is key to blending the flavors and preparing the liquid in which the pasta will cook.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken to the pot and add the dried pasta. Stir well to combine so the pasta is evenly distributed and coated in the sauce. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the pasta to cook perfectly while absorbing all the savory flavors.
Step 5: Stir in Cheeses
Once the pasta is tender, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and about a quarter cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mixing the cheeses in at this stage gives the sauce a wonderfully creamy texture as the Parmesan melts and the mozzarella begins to meld through.
Step 6: Melt More Mozzarella on Top
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta, then cover and let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. You want the cheese to become wonderfully gooey and melty, creating that irresistible cheesy crust on top.
Step 7: Final Touches
For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some more Italian seasoning over the top if you like, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately for the best cheesy, comforting experience.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil brighten the plate, adding a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the rich cheese and tomato sauce beautifully. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top just before serving also adds a lovely nutty finish.
Side Dishes
Since this pasta is rich and filling, I recommend pairing it with a crisp green salad or some garlicky roasted vegetables. A simple Caesar salad or steamed green beans with lemon zest will complement the meal without stealing the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this pasta in rustic, shallow bowls to showcase the gooey cheese and vibrant sauce. For a special occasion, add a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top for crunch. You might also try layering it in a small baking dish and broiling the cheese for a golden, bubbly finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually meld even more overnight, making for an easy and satisfying lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to two months. Divide portions into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth if the pasta seems dry. You can also microwave individual portions, covering loosely to retain moisture and ensure the cheese melts back perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes in this recipe?
Absolutely! Short-cut pastas like penne, rotini, or ziti work really well because they hold onto the sauce nicely. Just keep an eye on cooking times since different shapes can cook a bit faster or slower.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Skip the chicken and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. The robust marinara and cheeses provide plenty of flavor on their own.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Depending on the brand, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on the pasta’s texture.
What kind of cheese works best for this pasta?
Mozzarella for gooey meltiness and Parmesan for sharpness are classic for a reason, but you can experiment with provolone or Asiago for a different twist. Just stick with cheeses that melt well and complement Italian flavors.
How can I make the chicken more flavorful?
Seasoning is key! Besides the Italian seasoning and garlic powder in the recipe, marinating the chicken briefly in olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt before cooking adds extra juiciness and tang. Just don’t overdo it—simple flavors shine in this dish.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together all the best parts of a classic comfort dish while saving you time and dishes. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty yet simple, and it always feels like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try—you might find your new go-to weeknight winner!
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One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delicious, comforting meal that combines tender bite-sized chicken pieces with a rich marinara sauce, perfectly cooked short-cut pasta, and a generous blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Easy to prepare in just one pot, it’s a hassle-free dinner option that’s packed with Italian flavors and ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Additional dried Italian seasoning (optional)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Sauce
- 16 oz dried short-cut pasta (e.g., rigatoni)
- 24 oz jar of marinara sauce (e.g., Newman’s Own)
- Water to fill the empty marinara sauce jar
Cheeses
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided: 1/4 cup and 3/4 cup)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Garnish
- Fresh parsley and/or basil, minced for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot or skillet (such as a Dutch oven), heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken is mostly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Using the same pot, add the minced onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Sauce and Water: Pour in the marinara sauce, then fill the empty sauce jar with water and add it to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Simmer with Pasta and Chicken: Reduce heat to a strong simmer. Add the partially cooked chicken back into the pot along with the dried pasta. Stir everything together, cover the pot, and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Melt in Cheeses: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well until the cheeses melt and incorporate evenly into the pasta and sauce.
- Add Remaining Mozzarella: Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the dish. Cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese on top is melted and gooey.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle with extra dried Italian seasoning. Garnish with freshly minced parsley or basil, then serve hot immediately. Enjoy your cheesy, flavorful one-pot chicken Parmesan pasta!
Notes
- Use short-cut pasta like rigatoni, penne, or ziti to ensure even cooking in the one-pot method.
- Adjust seasoning to taste – additional garlic powder or Italian seasoning can elevate the flavors.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to prevent drying out.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes when cooking the onions and garlic.
- Fresh basil or parsley adds a bright finish but can be omitted if unavailable.
