Looking for an easy, hearty, and flavorful meal that will satisfy the whole family? One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the answer. This recipe combines all the comforting flavors of classic chicken parmesan with the convenience of a one-pan pasta dish. With crispy chicken, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this meal is sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Why You’ll Love One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta
1. Effortless Cooking
This one-pan dish minimizes cleanup and simplifies the cooking process. There’s no need to juggle multiple pots and pans—everything cooks in a single skillet! It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a delicious meal without a lot of fuss.
2. Classic Flavors
The combination of crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese will bring the classic flavors of chicken parmesan right to your table in a new, easy-to-make form.
3. Customizable
You can adjust the recipe to your family’s preferences. Whether you prefer whole wheat pasta, gluten-free noodles, or extra cheese, this dish is versatile enough to suit your taste.
Ingredients for One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta
For the Chicken:
- Chicken Breasts (2 medium-sized, boneless, skinless) – The chicken breasts are breaded and fried to crispy perfection before being added to the pasta.
- Egg (1 large) – For dipping the chicken into the breadcrumbs.
- Bread Crumbs (1 cup) – Adds a crispy coating to the chicken.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated) – For mixing into the bread crumbs to create a flavorful coating.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – For extra flavor in the breading.
For the Pasta:
- Pasta (12 oz, spaghetti or any shape you prefer) – This dish can be made with your favorite type of pasta, although spaghetti or penne work especially well.
- Marinara Sauce (1 1/2 cups) – A good quality marinara sauce will bring the dish to life with its rich tomato flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – The melty cheese is what makes this dish indulgent and delicious.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For cooking the chicken.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Adds a fragrant base to the pasta sauce.
- Salt and Pepper – For seasoning to taste.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg, and in another shallow bowl, combine the bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in the marinara sauce and water (about 2 cups). Bring it to a simmer and stir to combine. Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Add more water if the sauce starts to get too thick.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Pasta
While the pasta is cooking, slice the cooked chicken into strips or chunks. Once the pasta is tender, return the sliced chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine everything.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the chicken and pasta. Cover the skillet and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
Tips for the Perfect One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta
1. Use Thin Chicken Breasts
If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider slicing them in half horizontally to make them thinner. This ensures that they cook through evenly and quickly.
2. Make It Spicy
Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce to give the dish a little kick. This will add a nice spicy contrast to the richness of the cheese and chicken.
3. Choose the Right Pasta
Though spaghetti is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other types of pasta. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini work wonderfully in this dish as they hold the sauce well.
4. For Extra Crispiness
If you prefer extra crispy chicken, consider baking the breaded chicken breasts in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes after coating them in breadcrumbs. This will create an even crispier exterior.
Serving Suggestions
One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta is perfect on its own, but you can add these sides to complete the meal:
- Garlic Bread: A classic pairing with pasta, garlic bread is great for soaking up the sauce.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach make for healthy and delicious accompaniments.
Why You’ll Love One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta
This dish is the perfect marriage of convenience and flavor. The crispy chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese come together in a single skillet to create a delicious meal that’s both satisfying and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta is sure to impress.
Conclusion
One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that combines the beloved flavors of chicken parmesan with the ease of pasta. With minimal cleanup and a lot of flavor, it’s the perfect meal for busy nights or a weekend treat. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting, cheesy pasta dish your whole family will love.