One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta brings together all the comforting flavors of the classic Chicken Parmesan in a quick, easy, and flavorful pasta dish. This one-pot meal is the perfect weeknight dinner, combining tender chicken, hearty pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce—all cooked together in one pot for minimal cleanup. It’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, cook the diced chicken over medium heat until no longer pink. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and penne pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the pasta is tender and the liquid has been absorbed, about 12-15 minutes.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and substitute with vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for a vegetarian twist.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to bring some heat to the dish.
- Different Pasta: You can substitute the penne pasta with other short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. If the sauce is too thick after reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
10 FAQs
- Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They may require a little extra cooking time depending on their thickness.
- Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, though the cooking time may vary slightly. Be sure to check the pasta’s package instructions.
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, if you have leftover cooked chicken, you can add it in with the garlic and onion to warm it through before adding the other ingredients.
- Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe? To make it dairy-free, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based version.
- Can I add more vegetables? Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to make the dish even heartier and more nutritious.
- Can I use homemade chicken broth? Absolutely! Homemade chicken broth will add even more flavor to the dish, but store-bought broth works just as well.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or even a diced jalapeño to the dish for some heat.
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes? Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but be sure to dice them and cook them down a bit longer to achieve the same texture as canned tomatoes.
- Can I double this recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just be sure your pot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can make the dish a day ahead, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If reheating, add a bit of extra broth to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the perfect balance of rich, cheesy flavors and comforting pasta. It’s easy to prepare, full of delicious ingredients, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. With minimal cleanup and a short cooking time, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite!