If you’re searching for a simple, delicious, and comforting meal, look no further than this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Featuring tender chicken breasts, flavorful pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, this recipe delivers all the classic flavors of chicken parmesan in a one-pot wonder. Let’s dive into this culinary delight that will soon become a family favorite!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is not only easy to prepare but also a breeze to clean up. Here’s what makes it special:
– **Flavorful:** The combination of herbs, garlic, and rich spaghetti sauce brings the dish to life.
– **Quick Cooking:** Everything cooks in one pot, making it a time-saver.
– **Cheesy Goodness:** A generous amount of mozzarella and parmesan cheese adds that gooey, melty texture we all love.
– **Versatile:** Adapt the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice levels.
Ingredients at a Glance
To create this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1 Tbsp herb and garlic seasoning
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz campanelle pasta or mini shells
- 1 (24 oz) jar spaghetti sauce
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan, divided
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 Tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Tools & Equipment Needed
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools handy:
- Large Pot: A sturdy pot for cooking everything together.
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the ingredients as they cook.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for chopping the chicken and any additional veggies you may want to add.
Stepwise Method: One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the 1 lb chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with 1 Tbsp of herb and garlic seasoning, ensuring that it’s evenly coated.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large pot, heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
In the same pot, add the 8 oz campanelle pasta, 1 (24 oz) jar of spaghetti sauce, and 2 cups of water. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Add Seasoning and Chicken
Add 1 tsp of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Return the cooked chicken to the pot, mixing it well with the pasta and sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of panko bread crumbs, 2 Tbsp of melted butter, and 1 tsp of garlic powder. This will create a deliciously crunchy topping for your pasta.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Topping
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined. Sprinkle the panko mixture over the top.
Step 8: Broil for Extra Crispiness
For an added crunch, place the pot under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the topping is golden brown. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta warm, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the hearty, cheesy goodness!
Spring to Winter: Ideas
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a versatile dish that can be adapted for different seasons or occasions. Here are some ideas:
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini in the spring.
- Add roasted butternut squash in the fall for a touch of sweetness.
- For a summer twist, toss in some fresh basil and cherry tomatoes.
- Make it a cozy winter meal by serving it with a side of garlic bread and a garden salad.
Cook’s Notes
- Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- You can adjust the level of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep; simply double the batch and store for later.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken to speed up the process.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce.
Quick Q&A
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While campanelle and mini shells work great, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and replace it with your favorite vegetables or a plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian option.
What can I serve with this pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. For an extra treat, consider serving it with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Penne on the side.
Can I add more cheese?
Of course! Feel free to add more mozzarella or even some provolone for a cheesy twist. Cheese lovers will appreciate the extra gooeyness!
Once you’ve enjoyed this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta, why not try your hand at these delicious recipes?
Final Bite
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the heartiness of chicken, the comfort of pasta, and the richness of cheese in one easy-to-make meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave something satisfying. Enjoy every cheesy bite and savor the wonderful flavors that come together effortlessly in this one-pot wonder. Happy cooking!
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with herb and garlic seasoning.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add campanelle pasta, spaghetti sauce, and water. Stir together and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add red pepper flakes and return the cooked chicken to the pot. Mix well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
- While pasta cooks, prepare the topping by combining panko bread crumbs, melted butter, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
- Once pasta is cooked, remove from heat and stir in grated parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted. Sprinkle panko mixture on top.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes until the topping is golden brown, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- You can adjust the level of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep; simply double the batch and store for later.
