Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is a one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, hearty pasta, and a rich marinara sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It has all the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan but is made in a single skillet for an easy, hassle-free dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is comforting, flavorful, and ready in under 40 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup and easy prep!
• Quick & Easy – A delicious dinner in under 40 minutes.
• Classic Flavors – Inspired by traditional Chicken Parmesan but made simpler.
• Family-Friendly – A comforting dish that everyone will love.
• Customizable – Add veggies or make it spicy for extra flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Olive oil
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Marinara sauce
• Chicken broth
• Uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best)
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté Onion & Garlic – In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Add Liquids & Pasta – Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth. Stir well, then add the uncooked pasta.
4. Simmer Until Pasta is Tender – Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and let simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked through, about 12-15 minutes. If needed, add more broth or water to prevent sticking.
5. Add Chicken & Cheese – Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
6. Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley, and add crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 4-6 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Extra Veggies – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Creamy Version – Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese.
• Low-Carb Option – Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
• Crispy Topping – Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works great. Add it towards the end to prevent overcooking.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini works best because it holds sauce well.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for mushrooms, chickpeas, or plant-based chicken substitutes.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Provolone, gouda, or even cheddar can work if you prefer.

Why is my pasta sticking to the pan?

Make sure to stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.

Can I bake this dish instead?

Yes! Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes.

How do I make it extra cheesy?

Mix some ricotta cheese into the pasta for a creamy texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dish, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I make it more authentic to Chicken Parmesan?

Bread and pan-fry the chicken before adding it to the skillet for a crispy texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a larger skillet or Dutch oven and adjust liquid amounts as needed.

Conclusion

This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is a quick and easy one-pan dinner that delivers all the comforting flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan with minimal effort. It’s cheesy, hearty, and perfect for a weeknight meal. Try it today and enjoy a delicious homemade Italian-inspired dish with your family!

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