There’s something truly magical about one-pot meals, isn’t there? I mean, who doesn’t want to whip up a delicious dish without having to spend ages cleaning up a mountain of pots and pans afterward? One of my all-time favorites is this scrumptious One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, plus it brings back some fond memories of cozy family dinners and laughter around the table. I can practically hear the forks clinking and the happy chatter every time I make this!
What I love most about this recipe is how everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while the pasta absorbs the richness of the chicken broth and marinara. It’s also a great way to sneak in some protein and yumminess in a way that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist. So, let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!
What’s in One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This lean protein is the star of the show! Diced into bite-sized pieces, the chicken cooks quickly and absorbs all those lovely flavors.
Rigatoni or penne pasta: Both of these pasta shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite absolutely heavenly. I personally lean towards rigatoni because of its ridges—those little grooves trap all the cheesy goodness!
Olive oil: Ah, the foundation of flavor! A tablespoon is all you need to sauté the chicken and start building those delicious layers of taste.
Chicken broth: This liquid brings everything together, creating a savory base that enhances the dish. I usually use low-sodium broth to keep things balanced, but feel free to use homemade if you have it on hand!
Marinara sauce: A classic! It adds that tangy sweetness which pairs perfectly with the chicken and pasta. Store-bought works wonders, but if you have a favorite homemade recipe, bring it on!
Grated Parmesan cheese: The finishing touch that makes this dish creamy and dreamy! You can’t go wrong with Parmesan—just sprinkle a little extra on top when serving for good measure.
Garlic powder and Italian seasoning: These are the magic spices that bring the flavor profile to life. Garlic powder is an easy way to get that aromatic punch, and Italian seasoning adds a herby touch.
Salt and pepper: A must-have finishing touch to elevate the flavors. Taste as you go for best results!
Fresh parsley: This pretty green is for garnish and adds a splash of color. Plus, it brings a fresh taste that brightens up the dish!
Is One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is packed with wholesome ingredients and can be part of a balanced meal.
Chicken breasts: They’re a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle health and satiety.
Rigatoni or penne: While pasta can be a little higher in carbs, it’s also a great source of energy, especially if you’re active. Opting for whole-grain pasta can boost the fiber content, making it even better!
Marinara sauce: If you go for a brand that has no added sugars or preservatives, you’re looking at a sauce that’s rich in nutrients from the tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
The only potential downside? It can be a bit carb-heavy, especially if you serve it with a side of garlic bread (and let’s be real, who wouldn’t?!). Just enjoy in moderation and balance it out with plenty of veggies in your day.
Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 12 oz (340g) rigatoni or penne pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.
How to Make One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta?
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the pasta to the pot, followed by the chicken broth and marinara sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the pasta becomes creamy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta!
Cheesy Extras and Tips
– Feel free to mix in some veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
– If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can give this dish a tasty kick.
– Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to make it a complete meal!
– Leftovers? Don’t worry; they heat up beautifully! Just add a splash of broth when reheating to revive that creaminess.
I hope you give this One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta a try! It’s such a comforting meal that brings a smile to my face every time I make it. Don’t forget to let me know how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!
