Let me tell you, Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a dish that brings all the cozy vibes to your dinner table! It’s like a big warm hug in a bowl, combining tender chicken, rich marinara, and gooey cheese all on top of perfectly cooked penne pasta. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up on a busy weeknight or when you’re just craving something comforting. I first made this dish for my family during a chilly Sunday, and the smiles around the table were priceless! Trust me, once you dig in, you’ll be hooked on that savory goodness. Plus, it comes together in just about 35 minutes, so you can get to the good part—eating—faster! Get ready to impress your taste buds!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta (you can also use rigatoni or any pasta you love!)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (make sure they’re nice and fresh)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade if you’re feeling adventurous, but jarred works great too)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (the gooier, the better, right?)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for that cheesy, nutty flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (to get that perfect sear on the chicken)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (this adds such a lovely depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a delightful mix of herbs that really ties everything together)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy, season it just right!)
Make sure to have everything measured out and ready to go before you start cooking—it makes the process so much smoother and more enjoyable!
How to Prepare Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making Chicken Parmesan Pasta! It’s really straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar by the end of it. Here’s how to get it done:
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s get that pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in your 8 oz of penne pasta. Be sure to check the package for cooking time—it usually takes about 10-12 minutes to reach that perfect al dente texture. You want it firm enough to hold up with the sauce but soft enough to enjoy. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside while we work on the chicken!
Preparing the Chicken
Now, onto the chicken! Season those beautiful boneless, skinless chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I like to really coat them well to maximize flavor. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat—let it get nice and hot! Cook those seasoned chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and cooked through, so make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once they’re done, remove them from the skillet, let them rest a minute, and then slice them up.
Combining the Ingredients
Now for the fun part—combining everything! In the same skillet you used for the chicken, pour in that delicious marinara sauce and heat it through. Then, add your cooked penne pasta and stir everything together until it’s well coated. Top it off with those lovely sliced chicken pieces, and sprinkle on the 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Cover the skillet and let it cook for just a few minutes on low heat, until the cheese is gooey and melted. Voila! You’ve got a comforting, cheesy dish ready to be devoured.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich, comforting flavors that everyone will love.
- Nutritious chicken paired with wholesome pasta makes for a satisfying meal.
- Cheesy goodness from mozzarella and Parmesan that melts in your mouth.
- Customizable—add your favorite veggies for an extra nutrition boost!
Trust me, this Chicken Parmesan Pasta will become a go-to in your kitchen, delivering smiles and full bellies every time!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Chicken Parmesan Pasta turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to avoid any pitfalls:
- Don’t overcook the pasta: It’s crucial to strike that perfect al dente balance, as the pasta will continue to cook a bit when combined with the hot sauce.
- Let the chicken rest: After cooking, give the chicken a minute to rest before slicing. This helps keep all those juicy flavors locked in!
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add extra herbs or spices to the marinara sauce for a personalized touch. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
- Use a lid: Cover the skillet when melting the cheese to help it melt evenly and quickly—nobody likes un-melted cheese!
- Make it your own: Adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers not only boosts nutrition but also adds a lovely crunch and color!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be ready to whip up a delicious Chicken Parmesan Pasta that’s sure to impress!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutrition! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, but here’s a general idea of what you’re looking at for one plate of Chicken Parmesan Pasta:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 7g, Unsaturated Fat: 8g)
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 60g (Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 5g)
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
This dish is not only delicious but also packs a good protein punch! Enjoy it as part of a balanced meal for a satisfying culinary experience.
FAQ Section
Got questions about Chicken Parmesan Pasta? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries I hear:
Can I use different types of pasta? Absolutely! While penne is fantastic, you can swap it out for rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.
What can I add for extra flavor? I love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara for a little heat! Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top just before serving gives it a lovely pop of flavor and color.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prep everything and store it separately in the fridge. Just combine and heat when you’re ready to eat!
Is Chicken Parmesan Pasta gluten-free? If you use gluten-free pasta, then yes! Just be sure to check your marinara sauce for any hidden gluten.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Chicken Parmesan Pasta is super simple! Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy those delicious leftovers, you have a couple of options. For the best results, reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of water or extra marinara to keep it nice and moist while it warms through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop it in the microwave—just cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Enjoy every bite!
Print
Chicken Parmesan Pasta: 5 Comforting Layers of Flavor
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious pasta dish featuring chicken and marinara sauce topped with cheese.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions.
- Meanwhile, season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet, slice, and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add marinara sauce and heat through.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Top with sliced chicken, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover and cook until cheese is melted.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Chicken Parmesan Pasta