One pot meals are truly a lifesaver, aren’t they? With just one pot, you can whip up something easy, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying. My favorite? This one pot chicken parmesan pasta. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a cheesy sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance! I remember a cozy family dinner when I first made this dish—it was a hit! Everyone gathered around the table, and the laughter and smiles were just as fulfilling as the meal itself. Trust me, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting without the fuss of a million dishes to wash!
Ingredients for One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
To make this delicious one pot chicken parmesan pasta, you’ll need some simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups pasta (I love using penne or rotini for this dish)
- 3 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought works great)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded for that gooey factor
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated for a lovely nutty flavor
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin if you have it)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (easy flavor boost!)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for that classic taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip this!)
How to Prepare One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Now, let’s dive into making this scrumptious one pot chicken parmesan pasta! Trust me, it’s easier than you think. First, heat up the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add in the diced chicken. Sauté it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. The aroma will be irresistible!
Next, sprinkle in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together so the chicken gets that flavorful kick. Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Pour in the pasta, chicken broth, and marinara sauce. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover it. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your liking. Make sure to check occasionally and stir to prevent sticking! Finally, when the pasta is cooked, stir in the mozzarella and parmesan cheese until they’re melted and gooey. Serve it hot, and get ready for some serious comfort food joy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just about 30 minutes!
- One pot means easy cleanup—less time washing dishes!
- Deliciously comforting flavors that everyone in the family will love.
- Cheesy and savory—who can resist that combination?
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes.
Tips for Success with One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
To really elevate your one pot chicken parmesan pasta, consider marinating the chicken in a bit of Italian dressing or a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This adds an extra layer of flavor! You can also sneak in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers for a pop of color and nutrition—just toss them in with the pasta. And don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking; sometimes a bit more salt or a pinch of red pepper flakes can make all the difference. Enjoy the process!
Variations of One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
One of the best things about this one pot chicken parmesan pasta is how versatile it is! You can easily switch up the pasta type—try farfalle or whole wheat for a different twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley right at the end for a burst of freshness. You can also mix in cooked shrimp or even sausage for an extra protein boost. Feeling veggie-friendly? Toss in some zucchini or mushrooms while the pasta cooks. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers of this delightful one pot chicken parmesan pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help revive the creamy texture and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works too—just cover it and heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy that cheesy goodness all over again!
Nutritional Information for One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
When it comes to enjoying this one pot chicken parmesan pasta, you’ll be pleased to know it’s not just delicious but also packs a balanced punch! Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, 12 grams of fat, and 30 grams of protein. You’ll also get about 60 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams of fiber. Keep in mind, this nutritional information is an estimate, but it gives you a good idea of the wholesome goodness in this meal. Dive in and savor every bite!
FAQ about One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
I know you might have some questions about this fantastic dish, so let’s tackle a few common ones!
Can I use different pasta? Absolutely! While I love penne or rotini, you can experiment with any pasta shape you have on hand, just adjust the cooking time as needed.
What if I don’t have chicken broth? No worries! You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water, but the broth adds a rich flavor that’s hard to beat.
Can I add vegetables? Yes, please do! Spinach, bell peppers, or even broccoli can be tossed in for added nutrition and color. Just add them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
How can I make it spicier? If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños while cooking. It’ll give your pasta a delightful kick!
What should I serve with this dish? A simple side salad or some garlic bread pairs perfectly with this one pot chicken parmesan pasta, enhancing that Italian vibe!
Final Thoughts
I really hope you give this one pot chicken parmesan pasta a try! It’s a game changer for busy weeknights and will surely become a family favorite. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you—feel free to leave a comment and share your experiences! Cooking is all about joy and connection, and I can’t wait to see how this dish brings smiles to your table!
One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta: 30-Minute Comfort Food Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
One pot chicken parmesan pasta is a simple and delicious meal that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a cheesy sauce, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups pasta (penne or rotini)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add pasta, chicken broth, and marinara sauce to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
- Simmer for 15 minutes or until pasta is cooked.
- Stir in mozzarella and parmesan cheese until melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken before cooking.
- You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: one pot chicken parmesan pasta, chicken pasta, easy dinner recipes