Chicken Parmesan Pasta Dinner

A One-Pot Wonder with All the Flavors of Classic Chicken Parm!

Craving the crispy, cheesy deliciousness of chicken parmesan—but without the mess of frying and layering? This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Dinner gives you everything you love about the Italian-American classic in a simple, family-style pasta bake or stovetop meal.

Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or cozy Sunday dinners, this recipe combines juicy chicken, tender pasta, savory marinara, and lots of melted cheese—all in one pan!

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce

2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup water
12 ounces penne or rotini pasta, uncooked

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Optional: fresh basil, red pepper flakes, breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions

Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned on all sides (about 5–6 minutes).
Add Liquids & Pasta
Pour in marinara sauce, chicken broth, and water. Stir well, then add the uncooked pasta. Push the pasta down into the liquid as much as possible.
Simmer & Cook
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 13–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Add Cheese
Stir in half of the mozzarella and parmesan. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover for 2–3 minutes, until melted.
Serve Hot
Garnish with fresh basil, extra parmesan, or toasted breadcrumbs for crunch. Serve straight from the pan with a side of garlic bread!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Pasta

✅ One pot = easy cleanup

✅ Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
✅ Ready in 30 minutes
✅ Cheesy, saucy, and ultra satisfying

✅ Tastes just like chicken parm – no frying needed!

Make It Your Own

Breaded Chicken Chunks – Coat the chicken in seasoned breadcrumbs and bake or sauté for a true chicken parm flavor.
Add Veggies – Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.

Oven Finish – Transfer to a casserole dish, top with breadcrumbs & cheese, then broil for a crunchy golden top.

Storage & Meal Prep

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

What to Serve With Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Garlic Bread or Breadsticks
Simple Green Salad with balsamic vinaigrette

Steamed broccoli or asparagus
A glass of red wine (Cabernet or Chianti)

FAQs – Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Can I use precooked chicken?
Yes, just skip the sauté step and add cooked chicken with the liquids.

Can I make this in the oven?
Yes! After combining pasta, sauce, and liquids, bake in a covered dish at 375°F for about 30 minutes. Add cheese, then broil.

Is this good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It reheats beautifully and stays flavorful for days.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Dinner is comfort food at its finest. It’s easy, cheesy, and full of classic Italian flavor. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or at a casual family gathering, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite.