Introduction
This One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delightfully easy meal that combines the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan with the convenience of a pasta dish—all in one pot! It’s a perfect recipe for busy weeknights, allowing you to create a flavorful, hearty meal with minimal cleanup. This dish blends tender chicken pieces, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a rich marinara sauce topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, making it a comfort-food favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken pieces, along with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked through, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Add Garlic for Extra Flavor
Once the chicken is golden, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to release the garlic’s aromatic flavors without burning it.
Step 3: Combine with Broth and Marinara Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce, stirring well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed. This combination of liquids will help cook the pasta right in the pot, adding to its flavor.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Add the uncooked penne pasta to the pot, pressing it down to make sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Simmer and Cook
Once it begins boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the sauce.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Garnish
After the pasta has cooked, turn off the heat. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, mixing until they melt and create a creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped basil for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute penne with rotini, rigatoni, or any other short pasta. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta is tender.
2. Is there a substitute for marinara sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes with Italian herbs, or any tomato-based pasta sauce of your choice.
3. Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Certainly! You can replace the chicken with mushrooms or a plant-based protein, and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth.
Conclusion
This One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a perfect solution for anyone seeking a quick, delicious, and comforting meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, it’s sure to become a regular on your weeknight dinner rotation. The combination of tender chicken, pasta, and melted cheese, garnished with fresh basil, creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that everyone will love.