Chicken Parmesan Pasta

This Chicken Parmesan Pasta has quickly become one of my favorite weeknight dinners when I need comfort food without a ton of fuss. It combines familiar Italian flavors with the ease of a one-pan meal, making it perfect for busy evenings or casual family dinners.

I first made this after wanting to use up leftover chicken and pasta and it turned into a regular request from everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces of pasta: such as rotini, ziti, rigatoni or penne These shapes hold sauce well and cook evenly look for good quality dried pasta for better texture
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: for a smooth base flavor and to saute the chicken and onions Use extra virgin olive oil for best taste
• 1 small onion diced: adds sweetness and depth When picking onions choose ones that feel firm and have dry skin
• 4 garlic cloves minced: for punchy flavor Fresh garlic always outperforms jarred versions for its aroma
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: cut into bite size pieces cooks quickly and stays tender Buy fresh chicken and trim visible fat for cleaner taste
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste: enhances all flavors season carefully as the sauce and cheese add salt as well
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: brings a blend of herbs for authentic flavor Check the blend for good balance of oregano basil and thyme
• 24 ounces marinara sauce: I prefer Rao&s smooth texture and rich tomato flavor Choose one with simple ingredients for the best result
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: adds a subtle heat adjust if you prefer less or none
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: adds nuttiness and saltiness look for Parmesan Reggiano if possible for quality
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: melts gooey and creamy Use whole milk mozzarella for richness
• Chopped basil or parsley to garnish: provides fresh herbal brightness use fresh herbs whenever possible and chop just before serving

Instructions

Build The Base:

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper and set aside. In a large pot filled with salted water bring it to a boil for the pasta.

Cook Pasta Al Dente:

Add your chosen pasta to the boiling water and cook until it is just firm to the bite This could take about 8 to 10 minutes depending on pasta type The pasta cooks further in the oven so avoid overcooking.

Sauté Aromatics And Chicken:

While pasta cooks heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat Add diced onions and stir occasionally until they become translucent and soft about 4 minutes This helps develop a flavorful foundation.

Cook Chicken And Season:

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and sauté until they are cooked through and no longer pink about 4 to 6 minutes Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning allowing the garlic to become fragrant about one minute without burning.

Add Sauce And Spice:

Pour in the marinara sauce along with red pepper flakes Stir and reduce heat to low to keep simmering gently which melds flavors nicely.

Combine Pasta And Cheese:

Drain the pasta reserving a quarter cup of the cooking water Add the pasta to the sauce in the skillet Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese Mixing thoroughly If the mixture looks dry add some reserved pasta water to keep it saucy and moist.

Top With Mozzarella And Parmesan:

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and remaining Parmesan evenly over the top of the pasta For those without oven-safe skillets transfer everything to a baking dish coated with cooking spray.

Bake And Serve:

Place the skillet or dish into the oven preheated to 400 degrees Bake until the cheese melts and bubbles about 10 to 15 minutes Carefully remove and garnish with chopped basil or parsley adding a fresh finish.

I still remember the first time my kids tried this and their eyes lit up seeing the cheese bubble and stretch on their spoons.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat gently in the oven or microwave adding a splash of water if dry This helps keep the pasta from drying out.

Ingredient Swaps

Use turkey breast in place of chicken for a leaner option Substitute provolone or cheddar for mozzarella for a different but tasty cheese experience Add in cooked mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a simple green salad dressed in lemon and olive oil This cuts through the richness and balances the meal Garlic bread or toasted baguette works beautifully for mopping up extra sauce.

Enjoy this comforting dish that brings family together around the table every time.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, ziti, rigatoni, or penne work best as they hold sauce well and bake evenly.

→ How can I ensure the chicken is juicy and flavorful?

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces, season generously, and cook until just done to maintain moisture and flavor.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assembling in advance is possible. Keep refrigerated and bake just before serving for best results.

→ What can I use as a garnish for finishing this dish?

Fresh chopped basil or parsley adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich baked pasta.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy after baking?

Cook pasta until just al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven, preserving texture and bite.