One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
A delightful one-pot meal that combines creamy cheese, tender chicken, and flavorful marinara sauce with your favorite pasta, perfect for family dinners.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 550kcal
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced Ensure juicy morsels in every bite.
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or ziti) Choose your preferred pasta shape.
- 24 ounces marinara sauce Rich and bursting with robust tomato flavors.
- 2 cups water Assist in the cooking of the pasta.
Cheese and Seasonings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Gooey and melty for cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese Adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped Provides fresh, aromatic touch.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Optional for a little heat.
- to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper Essential for seasoning perfection.
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken, seasoning it generously with salt and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Adding Pasta and Sauce
- Pour in the marinara sauce and add 2 cups of water. Stir in the uncooked pasta, ensuring that it’s fully coated in the sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finishing Touches
- After the pasta is tender, stir in the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens.
- Garnish with fresh basil just before serving. Serve hot.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with Italian herbs before cooking. You can also experiment with different cheese blends. If short on time, use rotisserie chicken.