The Best Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe for Cozy Family Dinners

Weeknight dinners reach new heights with this delectable chicken parmesan pasta that combines classic Italian flavors in one comforting dish.

Crispy breaded chicken nestles perfectly atop al dente noodles, creating a mouthwatering combination.

Melted mozzarella blankets each bite with rich, gooey goodness.

Marinara sauce adds a vibrant punch of traditional seasoning that makes everyone smile.

Fresh basil leaves bring a subtle herbaceous note to the entire plate.

Quick and satisfying, this recipe turns an ordinary evening into a delightful culinary experience.

You’ll want to savor every single forkful of this irresistible meal.

Storing Chicken Parmesan Pasta Correctly

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the pasta in a shallow container to help it cool quickly and prevent bacterial growth.
• Avoid leaving the dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can swap the pasta. Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work great and will hold the sauce well.

• Is this recipe spicy?

No, the recipe is mild. The Italian seasoning and paprika add flavor without heat. If you want spice, add red pepper flakes.

• Do I need to pre-cook the pasta before adding it to the skillet?

No, the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors as it becomes tender.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Chicken Parmesan Pasta with Classic Flavor

• Speed Up Dinner: This one-pan wonder transforms ordinary ingredients into a mouthwatering meal without complicated steps or multiple dishes to clean.
• Family Crowd-Pleaser: Packed with cheesy goodness and tender chicken, kids and adults will devour every single bite of this comforting pasta dish.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like adding red pepper flakes for heat, using different cheeses, or including extra veggies to match your family's taste preferences.
• Minimal Kitchen Cleanup: Cooking everything in a single skillet means less washing up and more time enjoying your delicious meal together.

Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Pasta

• Chicken: Cubed chicken serves as the main protein source and provides a hearty base for the pasta dish.

• Pasta: The core ingredient that creates the main body of the dish.
• Marinara Sauce, Chicken Broth: Provide a flavorful and moisture-rich cooking environment for the pasta.

• Salt, Pepper, Italian Seasoning, Paprika: Add depth and complexity to the chicken's flavor profile.
• Olive Oil: Helps in cooking the chicken and prevents sticking to the skillet.
• Garlic: Brings a rich, aromatic element to the overall dish.
• Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Contribute creamy texture and sharp, tangy flavor to the pasta.
• Fresh Parsley: Offers a bright, fresh garnish that enhances the visual appeal and adds a subtle herb note.

How to Prepare Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Sizzle Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss cubed chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it turns a beautiful golden brown. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Awaken the Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Saute for 1-2 minutes until the kitchen fills with a mouthwatering aroma.

Step 3: Create a Flavor-Packed Sauce

Pour in marinara sauce and chicken broth. Stir the liquids together, creating a rich and vibrant sauce.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook Pasta in Sauce

Add uncooked pasta directly into the skillet.

Ensure every pasta piece gets coated with the delicious sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Wait until the pasta becomes tender and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.

Step 5: Reunite Chicken and Pasta

Return the golden chicken to the skillet.

Gently mix the chicken into the pasta, ensuring everything is well combined.

Step 6: Melt Cheese to Perfection

Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the pasta.

Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey, irresistible blanket.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish by scattering fresh parsley on top.

Serve the pasta hot, straight from the skillet, for maximum flavor and enjoyment.

Tips to Elevate Chicken Parmesan Pasta

• Choose chicken breasts with uniform thickness to ensure even cooking and golden-brown exterior.
• Use homemade marinara sauce for deeper flavor complexity if time permits.
• Swap regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free options for dietary preferences without compromising taste.
• Add red pepper flakes for extra heat and zesty kick if you enjoy spicier dishes.
• Let the pasta rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to allow sauce to thicken and flavors to meld perfectly.

Flavor Twists to Try with Chicken Parmesan Pasta

• Vegetarian Zucchini Pasta: Replace chicken with roasted zucchini cubes, using same seasoning and cooking method for a plant-based alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free penne or rotini, ensuring all other ingredients remain the same.
• Spicy Cajun Remix: Add Cajun seasoning instead of Italian herbs, use andouille sausage in place of chicken for a bold, zesty flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Version: Substitute pasta with cauliflower rice, keeping the cheese and sauce components identical for a lighter meal.

Side Dishes to Serve Alongside Chicken Parmesan Pasta

• Cozy Family Dinner Delight: Serve this chicken parmesan pasta with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal that brings everyone together.
• Elegant Dinner Party Presentation: Plate the pasta in individual white dishes, top with extra fresh parsley, and pair with a chilled white wine to impress guests with a restaurant-quality experience.
• Meal Prep Champion: Divide the pasta into meal prep containers for easy lunches during the week, adding a sprinkle of extra cheese when reheating to keep the dish fresh and delicious.
• Picnic Perfect Option: Pack the pasta in a sealed container for a hearty outdoor meal, serving it at room temperature with a side of cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices for a light, refreshing accompaniment.

Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Irresistible chicken parmesan pasta combines classic Italian flavors in a comforting one-pot meal. Melted cheese, crispy chicken, and rich marinara sauce create a satisfying dinner perfect for family gatherings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (450 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed

Seasoning and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Pasta and Sauce:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) penne or pasta of choice
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth

Cheese:

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Sear chicken cubes in olive oil over medium heat at 350°F, seasoning thoroughly with Italian herbs and spices until achieving a rich golden exterior. Transfer protein to a separate plate.
2. Infuse the same skillet with minced garlic, releasing aromatic flavors for approximately 60-90 seconds.
3. Introduce marinara sauce and chicken broth, creating a harmonious liquid base by whisking and bringing to a gentle simmer.
4. Submerge uncooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring complete coating. Seal with a lid and cook for 12-15 minutes, periodically stirring to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
5. Reintegrate the seared chicken into the pasta mixture, gently folding to distribute proteins throughout the dish.
6. Generously scatter mozzarella and parmesan cheese across the surface. Cover for 2-3 minutes, allowing cheese to melt into a creamy, luxurious layer.
7. Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley as a vibrant garnish. Serve immediately while hot and bubbling.

Notes

• Customize spice levels by adjusting Italian seasoning and paprika for a personalized flavor profile.
• Ensure chicken cubes are uniform in size for even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Substitute marinara sauce with homemade tomato sauce or arrabbiata for a bolder taste experience.
• Create a gluten-free version by using alternative pasta like chickpea or zucchini noodles without compromising the rich, cheesy essence of the recipe.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 560 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 750 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 52 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 45 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg