The Best Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe for Cozy Family Dinners
Comfort meets culinary elegance in this mouthwatering chicken parmesan pasta that strikes the perfect balance between classic Italian flavors and hearty home cooking.
Tender chicken breasts coated in crispy breadcrumbs dance atop a bed of perfectly al dente pasta, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.
Melted mozzarella and sharp parmesan cheese blanket the dish with irresistible golden-brown goodness.
Every forkful promises a delightful blend of crispy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and perfectly seasoned pasta.
The recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that feels both familiar and exciting.
Families and friends will gather around the table, eager to savor each delicious bite of this crowd-pleasing dinner.
FAQs
Yes, you can substitute penne, rigatoni, or rotini for similar results. Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well.
The red pepper flakes add a mild kick. You can reduce or omit them for a less spicy version, or add more for extra heat.
Use whole wheat pasta, lean chicken breast, low-fat cheese, and reduce the amount of olive oil. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and pasta in advance, store separately in the refrigerator, and combine and reheat when ready to serve. Just add fresh cheese when reheating.
Chicken Parmesan Pasta – Big Reasons to Love
Essentials for Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Main Protein:Pasta Base:Sauce and Liquid Components:Cheese Elements:Seasoning and Aromatics:Oil and Garnish:Easy Steps for Cheesy Chicken Parm Pasta
Step 1: Sizzle The Chicken
Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat.
Toss cubed chicken pieces and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Cook until chicken turns golden brown and is completely done through.
Transfer chicken to a separate plate.
Step 2: Awaken The Garlic
In the identical skillet, gently cook minced garlic until its aromatic fragrance fills the kitchen.
Step 3: Combine Pasta Magic
Add the following ingredients:Thoroughly mix all ingredients together.
Step 4: Simmer And Soften
Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower heat.
Cover and let simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta reaches perfect tenderness.
Step 5: Melt The Cheese
Fold in these delicious ingredients:Cook for 2-3 minutes until cheese becomes wonderfully melted and stretchy.
Step 6: Finish With Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle fresh basil on top and serve piping hot.
Enjoy your delectable meal!
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Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Comfort meets Italian charm in this chicken parmesan pasta, blending crispy chicken with rich marinara and melted cheese. Hearty ingredients create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Main Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breast (cubed)
Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
Cheese and Seasonings:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat (375°F), creating a golden searing environment for the chicken cubes.
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sauté until exterior turns crispy and golden brown, ensuring thorough internal cooking (approximately 6-8 minutes).
- Transfer cooked chicken to a separate plate, maintaining skillet’s heat and remaining flavorful residue.
- Introduce minced garlic to the skillet, allowing aromatic notes to develop and permeate the cooking surface for 30-45 seconds.
- Pour pasta, marinara sauce, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes into the skillet, thoroughly mixing ingredients to create a uniform sauce.
- Elevate mixture to a vigorous boil, then immediately reduce heat to low, covering skillet and allowing pasta to simmer and absorb liquid (12-15 minutes).
- Gently stir pasta periodically to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking and sauce distribution.
- Incorporate previously cooked chicken, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until cheese melts completely and creates a creamy, cohesive texture.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle fresh basil across the dish for a vibrant, herbaceous finish.
- Serve immediately while pasta remains hot and cheese stays wonderfully melted.
Notes
- Swap protein options by using tofu, shrimp, or ground turkey for diverse dietary needs.
- Control spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes or omitting them for mild palates.
- Choose whole wheat pasta to increase fiber and nutritional value of the dish.
- Use low-sodium broth and marinara sauce for heart-healthy modifications.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 495 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Michael Reyes
Founder & Lead Recipe Developer
Expertise
Education
Santa Fe Community College
Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.