If you have been searching for a meal that brings together the rich flavors of classic Italian comfort food with the ease of a single pot cleanup, look no further than this Ultimate One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe. It combines tender chicken, hearty pasta, and a luscious tomato-based sauce all melted together with creamy mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is your shortcut to a restaurant-quality dinner at home, bringing friends and family together around a warm, satisfying dish that’s as simple to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that are pantry staples for many home cooks, yet each one plays a key role in building the layers of flavor and vibrant textures you’ll love. From the juicy chicken pieces to the aromatic herbs and the gooey cheese, every component is essential.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and easy eating.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the chicken beautifully and adds a pleasant richness.
- 1 onion, chopped: Provides a sweet base that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of aromatic savoriness that defines Italian dishes.
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Creates a textured, robust sauce with natural sweetness.
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Smooths out the sauce for a velvety finish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses the dish with earthy, slightly minty notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Enhances the herbal depth for that classic Italian flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle heat for those who like a little kick.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Provides the liquid to cook the pasta perfectly while enriching the sauce.
- 1 pound pasta: Penne, rotini, or your favorite shape — it soaks up the sauce and makes the dish hearty.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into creamy pockets, adding indulgence and softness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled in for sharp, nutty flavor that pulls everything together.
- Fresh basil leaves: Brighten the dish with color and a fresh herbaceous note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make Ultimate One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper; this simple step ensures every bite is flavorful. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then brown the chicken on all sides until it develops a golden crust. This adds both texture and a rich, savory depth. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic for an Aromatic Base
In the same pot, add chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, which usually takes about five minutes. This gentle cooking releases their natural sweetness. Then, toss in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to bring out its fragrant aroma without burning it.
Step 3: Build the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, then season with dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if you want a touch of heat. Stir everything together and season with additional salt and pepper. This sauce is the heart of the dish, combining tangy, herbal, and slightly spicy notes.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Bring to a Boil
Next, pour in the chicken broth. This liquid will not only cook the pasta but also infuse the sauce with extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil to prepare for adding the pasta and chicken.
Step 5: Cook Pasta and Chicken Together
Add the uncooked pasta and the seared chicken back into the pot. Stir to ensure everything is submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will cook right in the sauce, absorbing all its wonderful flavors, while the chicken finishes cooking through.
Step 6: Melt in the Cheeses
Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the pot from heat. Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. These melt into the warm pasta, creating a creamy, cheesy coating that makes this dish truly irresistible.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor just before serving. Your Ultimate One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is ready to enjoy with minimal mess and maximum satisfaction!
How to Serve Ultimate One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
While the fresh basil adds a classic touch, you can also sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to enhance flavor and presentation. A drizzle of good quality olive oil can add a silky finish and elevate the dish visually as well.
Side Dishes
This pasta is a hearty dish on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for contrast. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, making your meal feel complete and utterly satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Ultimate One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe right in the pot for a rustic feel that’s perfect for family dinners. Alternatively, plate it in shallow bowls to showcase the colors and textures, adding a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves and cheese as beautiful finishing touches. For casual gatherings, consider individual ramekins with a light broil of extra mozzarella for a bubbly top layer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making your next meal just as tasty and comforting as the first.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a convenient option for busy nights. Cool completely, then place in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back its saucy goodness and creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs can be used for more flavor and juiciness. Just cut them to bite-sized pieces like the breasts, and adjust cooking time if needed to ensure they are cooked through.
What pasta shapes work best for the Ultimate One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe?
Penne and rotini are excellent choices because they hold the sauce well, but feel free to use any short pasta you like. Avoid very thin pastas that might get mushy during the simmer.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more cheese or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian-friendly pasta.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes included?
The red pepper flakes add just a mild kick without overpowering the classic flavors. You can easily omit them if you prefer a completely mild dish or adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
Is it necessary to use both crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce?
Yes, using both gives your sauce a great balance of texture and smoothness. Crushed tomatoes provide body and a slightly chunky texture, while tomato sauce adds creaminess and depth to the sauce’s consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Ultimate One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe truly takes all the stress out of making a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner without sacrificing flavor or warmth. Once you try this dish, it might just become your go-to meal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend feasts. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and dive into a bowl of cheesy, saucy, chicken-and-pasta goodness that’s made simple with just one pot.
Print
Ultimate One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Ultimate One Pot Chicken Parm Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken pieces, hearty pasta, and a rich tomato sauce infused with Italian herbs. Finished with creamy melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners, offering a delicious twist on classic Chicken Parmesan in a convenient and easy-to-make pasta format.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta and Cheese
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Season chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor before cooking.
- Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the same pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add broth and start simmering: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add pasta and chicken back: Add the pasta shape of your choice and the browned chicken pieces to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the pasta: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is done and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add cheeses: Remove the pot from heat and stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan until they melt into a creamy sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately while warm and cheesy.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken for added flavor but increase cooking time accordingly.
- For spicier dishes, increase red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-grated.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make the recipe gluten-free if needed.
