One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Big one pot flavor and barely any cleanup This pasta brings the cozy comfort of chicken parmesan to a weeknight table in less than thirty minutes It is my family’s answer when we want something cheesy and saucy but are short on time and patience for dishes

When I first threw this meal together on a hectic evening my whole family raved and now it is our go-to “everybody’s happy” dinner

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender pieces that soak up the flavor Use the freshest you can find
• Italian seasoning: A classic blend that brings the iconic chicken parm flavor Look for a mix with real herbs
• Garlic powder: Adds an extra layer of savory depth Choose a fine powder for even distribution
• Yellow onion: Builds the flavor foundation Chop fine so it melts into the sauce
• Fresh garlic: Gives the dish that signature aroma and extra punch Pick firm fresh cloves
• Dried short-cut pasta: Rigatoni or another sturdy shape holds sauce and bites of chicken well
• Marinara sauce: Brings all the saucy richness Use a brand with real tomatoes and herbs for best taste
• Water: Added to the pot so the pasta cooks tender right in the sauce Use filtered water if possible
• Mozzarella cheese: Provides melt and gooey texture Shred your own from a block if you can for best melt
• Parmesan cheese: Brings salty and nutty flavor Freshly grate if possible for best results
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning Taste as you go and adjust
• Italian seasoning extra: Adds a fresh herbal boost if you want
• Fresh parsley or basil: Fresh herbs for color and freshness right before serving Pick vibrant leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Chicken:

Dice boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite sized chunks Pat them dry and season with salt pepper Italian seasoning and garlic powder Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy skillet over medium high Cook the chicken pieces for about five minutes stirring often until they are just about cooked through but not browned Remove them to a plate so they stay tender

Sauté the Aromatics:

Without cleaning the pot add finely minced onion and garlic to the remaining oil Lower the heat to medium Cook for two to three minutes stirring so nothing burns The onion should soften until translucent and the garlic should smell fragrant

Build the Sauce:

Pour in a full jar of your favorite marinara sauce Fill the empty jar with water and add it to the pot Stir well Raise the heat and bring everything to a gentle boil The water helps the pasta cook and gives the right saucy consistency

Add Chicken and Pasta:

Add the mostly cooked chicken and all the dry pasta to the bubbling sauce Stir to coat everything well Turn the heat down so the sauce simmers strongly Cover and cook for ten to fifteen minutes Stir now and then to keep the pasta from sticking Check the pasta for doneness it should be tender and saucy

Melt in the Cheese:

Once the pasta is ready stir in Parmesan and about a quarter cup of mozzarella cheese Use a spoon to blend the cheese thoroughly into the hot pasta

Finish and Serve:

Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella over the pasta Cover for another two to three minutes so the cheese melts and becomes gooey Garnish with extra Italian seasoning and fresh parsley or basil Serve hot right from the pot

Save

You Must Know

• High in protein chicken and cheese make this a satisfying dinner
• Pasta cooks right in the sauce which saves time and boosts flavor
• This meal reheats like a dream for lunch or another dinner

My favorite part is the mozzarella on top bubbling out of the oven When I was a kid my grandma made baked pasta every Sunday so the smell takes me right back

Storage Tips

Let your chicken parmesan pasta cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days To reheat just warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water or in the microwave Many say the flavors get even better after a night in the fridge

Ingredient Substitutions

No chicken breasts Use boneless chicken thighs for a bit more richness Gluten free pasta can swap in for regular just keep an eye on the cooking time For a lighter version use part skim cheeses or swap half of the pasta with spiralized zucchini

Serving Suggestions

A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette cuts the richness Garlic bread or focaccia is perfect for scooping up extra sauce If you want some color roasted broccoli or peas add a nice veggie boost

Save

Cultural or Historical Context

Chicken parmesan is a beloved Italian American dish often made by breading and frying chicken then oven baking it with sauce and cheese This one pot pasta captures those same flavors in a faster homestyle way The ease of using just one pot really shows how classic recipes can fit into busy weeknights

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can swap the rigatoni for penne, ziti, or another short-cut pasta, but adjust cook time to suit the pasta shape.

→ What can I use instead of chicken breasts?

Boneless chicken thighs work great and add more flavor and tenderness to the dish.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir the pasta occasionally after adding it to the pot and ensure there is enough liquid for it to cook evenly.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It tastes best fresh, but leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this meal vegetarian?

Absolutely. Omit the chicken and add more vegetables or plant-based protein for a savory vegetarian option.