If you love the comforting flavors of Italian-American classics but crave something quick, easy, and thoroughly satisfying, this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is exactly what your weeknight dinner needs. Imagine tender chunks of chicken kissed with Italian seasoning, swimming in a luscious tomato and cream sauce, and perfectly cooked penne all done in one pot to save you time and dishes. It’s cheesy, cozy, and bursting with fresh basil brightness, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, staple ingredients come together in this dish, each adding a unique flair that builds the hearty flavors and textures. From the rich olive oil that starts the savory base to the fresh basil that adds a lively finish, every element plays a vital role in crafting this unforgettable pasta meal.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and garlic to golden perfection while adding a fruity richness.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces: Tender protein that absorbs all the delicious seasonings and sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish, making everything pop.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings classic Italian flavor notes to the chicken.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic warmth and a subtle bite that complements the marinara.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that helps cook the pasta and infuses it with savory goodness.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Gives the dish its vibrant tomato flavor and beautiful red color.
- 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to soak up the sauce and hold onto every cheesy bite.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds a smooth, silky texture that turns the sauce decadently creamy.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts wonderfully to create that gooey, irresistible cheese pull.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a nutty, savory kick that rounds out the cheese blend perfectly.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil: Brings a fresh and slightly sweet herbaceous note that brightens the whole dish.
- Optional toppings—extra Parmesan, red pepper flakes: Customize your plate with added richness or a little spicy heat.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces along with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned and mostly cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step locks in flavor and ensures every bite of chicken is juicy and delicious.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but not burnt. Garlic is the aromatic heart of this dish, adding a subtle warmth that blends beautifully with the tomato base.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Bring to Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce, stirring well to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. This step starts melding the flavors together and prepares the cooking liquid for the pasta.
Step 4: Add Uncooked Pasta
Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid. This one-pot method allows the pasta to absorb all the rich flavors as it cooks, eliminating the need for separate boiling.
Step 5: Cook Until Pasta is Tender
Cover the pot, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let everything cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The pasta will soak up the liquid and soften perfectly to an al dente texture.
Step 6: Stir in Cream and Cheeses
Once the pasta is tender, stir in the heavy cream, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until all the cheese has melted into a luscious, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of pasta and chicken.
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Basil and Adjust Seasonings
Remove the pot from heat and fold in the chopped fresh basil. Taste and tweak the seasoning with a little more salt or pepper if needed. This fresh herb adds a lively brightness that balances the rich, cheesy sauce.
Step 8: Serve Hot with Optional Toppings
Dish out the pasta immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. This final flourish adds a personal touch and boosts the flavor even more.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly grated Parmesan and vibrant chopped basil leaves make simple yet stunning garnishes that add texture and an inviting aroma just before serving. For some extra flair, a dash of red pepper flakes provides a gentle punch of spice and beautiful color contrast.
Side Dishes
This pasta is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also a classic companion, perfect for soaking up the rich sauce you won’t want to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style straight from the pot for a cozy, communal vibe, or plate it elegantly in wide bowls with garnishes arranged artfully. For special occasions, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or balsamic glaze over the top to elevate the presentation effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making it an excellent option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta might slightly soften after freezing, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh when possible.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir well to revive the creamy texture and melt any hardened cheese bits back into the dish.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully here, other sturdy pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle will also soak up the sauce nicely without getting mushy.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a coconut cream alternative and use dairy-free cheeses to make the dish suitable for lactose intolerance or dairy-free diets.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs add a bit more richness and stay juicy, which makes them perfect for this recipe. Just cook them a little longer if needed to ensure they are fully done.
How spicy is the dish?
The recipe itself is mild, making it kid-friendly and approachable, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne if you want to kick up the heat.
Can this recipe be doubled?
You can double the ingredients, but make sure to use a very large pot or skillet to allow enough space for the pasta to cook evenly in the liquid.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a delicious meal that comes together so quickly and with so little fuss. This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe has become one of my all-time favorites, perfect for busy nights when comfort food is a must. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll have a new go-to dish that feels indulgent, fresh, and effortlessly satisfying all at once.
Print
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian American
Description
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delicious and easy Italian-American dish combining tender chicken, penne pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce all cooked in a single skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it delivers the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Sauce and Pasta
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Cheeses and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Optional toppings: extra Parmesan, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Warm the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and mostly cooked through.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add liquids and bring to simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce. Stir everything together well and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add pasta: Add the uncooked penne pasta, stirring well to ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the sauce.
- Simmer pasta: Cover the pot with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Make it creamy: Stir in the heavy cream, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Finish with basil: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil for freshness and added flavor.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the pasta and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- If the pasta thickens too much as it cools, stir in a splash of warm broth or water before serving to loosen the sauce.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
- This dish reheats well but may need additional liquid to loosen the sauce after refrigeration.
