Description
Enjoy all the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan in a creamy, cheesy one-pot pasta dish! This easy comfort food recipe features tender chicken, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all cooked in a single pot for minimal cleanup. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner the whole family will love!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 12 ounces penne pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
. Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken, season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned (about 5-6 minutes).
- Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Pour in chicken broth and marinara sauce, then bring to a boil.
- Stir in uncooked pasta, reduce heat to medium-low, and cover.
- Simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
3. Make it Cheesy!
- Stir in heavy cream, then mix in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy this cheesy, comforting, and easy pasta dish!
Notes
- For extra crunch, top with toasted panko breadcrumbs before serving.
- Want a lighter version? Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or low-fat milk.
- Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta, Comfort Food
- Method: One-Pot, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
