Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Pasta
- The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Chicken
- How to Get That Classic Parmesan Flavor
- Best Side Dishes for Chicken Parmesan Pasta
- Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Notes & Tips
Key Takeaways
Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a quick, one-pot dinner recipe that combines tender chicken, marinara sauce, and cheesy goodness for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and is easily customizable with your favorite ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Pasta
This Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, bringing together juicy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese in one pot. Whether you need an easy dinner recipe or just a hearty comfort food, this dish has you covered. Betty from Betty Cooks crafted this dish to be not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare.
The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Chicken
Getting that juicy, tender chicken in your pasta is all about the right seasoning and searing technique. Before cooking, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for a deep flavor. A hot skillet with olive oil ensures a golden-brown sear that locks in moisture, giving your dish that restaurant-quality taste.
How to Get That Classic Parmesan Flavor
What makes Chicken Parmesan Pasta truly stand out is the rich combination of cheeses. Using both mozzarella and Parmesan gives this dish the perfect balance of creamy and sharp flavors. For an extra crispy touch, try broiling the dish for two minutes after adding the cheese—this will create a golden, bubbly crust on top.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Pairing this pasta with the right sides can elevate your meal. A crisp Caesar salad or a garlic breadstick makes the perfect complement. If you’re looking for a lighter option, steamed vegetables or a simple arugula salad with lemon dressing add a fresh contrast to the rich pasta flavors.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
This dinner recipe is not only easy to prepare but also great for meal prep. You can cook the pasta in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or marinara sauce to keep it from drying out. If freezing, store the pasta in an airtight container for up to three months.
Notes & Tips
- For extra flavor, add fresh basil or red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- Use whole-wheat pasta for a healthier version of this dish.
- If you prefer a crispy texture, top the pasta with breadcrumbs before broiling.
Chicken Parmesan Pasta – Easy Dinner Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups penne pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Season the diced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chicken until golden brown.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the marinara sauce, red pepper flakes (if using), and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Add the uncooked pasta and mix well. Cover and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pasta, cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
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