Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet has become my go-to weeknight hero, and I think it will be yours too! There’s something incredibly comforting about the gooey cheese, savory tomato sauce, and tender chicken, all mingling with perfectly cooked pasta. I remember the first time I tried making it – the aroma of garlic and basil filling my kitchen felt like a warm hug. This one-pan chicken parmesan pasta is so forgiving, making it a fantastic dish for chicken parmesan pasta skillet for beginners. It delivers all those classic Italian flavors without the fuss. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet
This dish is a weeknight miracle worker, and here’s why:
- It boasts incredible flavor, combining tender chicken, zesty tomato sauce, and melted cheese.
- The easy chicken parmesan pasta skillet comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy evenings.
- It’s a healthier take on the classic, offering lean protein and a good dose of vegetables.
- This skillet chicken parmesan recipe is incredibly budget-friendly, using pantry staples.
- It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will devour.
- The one-pan cleanup is a dream, minimizing kitchen mess.
- You get all the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan in a fuss-free meal.
Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating a fantastic tomato basil chicken parmesan pasta skillet. I love how simple the list is, making this recipe super accessible.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces – I find chicken thighs work well too if you prefer!
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Extra virgin is my favorite for that rich flavor.
- 1 small onion, chopped – A yellow or white onion works beautifully here.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic makes all the difference!
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes – This forms the flavorful base of our sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – A classic Italian herb that adds depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – Complementary to the oregano, it brings that authentic taste.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all the other flavors.
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or spaghetti work well) – Penne is great because the sauce gets into all the nooks and crannies.
- 1 cup chicken broth – This helps cook the pasta right in the skillet.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For that essential gooey, cheesy topping!
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, salty kick.
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional) – A little fresh herb adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet
This one pot chicken parmesan pasta is surprisingly simple, and I love how it all comes together in just one pan. It makes cleanup a breeze!
- Step 1: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 2: Add 1 small onion, chopped to the skillet. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken.
- Step 3: Toss in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just 1 minute more until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Step 4: Pour in 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring this glorious sauce to a simmer.
- Step 5: Add 8 ounces pasta (penne or spaghetti are great choices!) and 1 cup chicken broth to the skillet. Stir everything together well, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged.
- Step 6: Bring the liquid to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet tightly and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly al dente and the sauce has thickened beautifully. Give it a stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 7: Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet. Nestling them into the sauce.
- Step 8: Sprinkle the 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and wonderfully bubbly. It smells amazing at this point!
- Step 9: Garnish with fresh basil if you like, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve this delicious chicken parmesan noodle skillet immediately.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet
I’ve learned a few tricks that elevate this dish from good to absolutely amazing. These tips will help you nail this skillet chicken parmesan recipe every time.
- Always brown your chicken before adding it to the sauce. This locks in flavor and gives you a better texture.
- Don’t overcook the pasta in the skillet; it will continue to cook slightly under the cheese.
- Use fresh garlic and good quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor base.
- For an extra cheesy finish, you can broil the skillet for a minute or two at the end, watching it closely!
What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet?
The real secret to the best chicken parmesan pasta skillet is achieving that perfect balance of tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all topped with gooey, melted cheese. Browning the chicken first is key!
Can I make Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet ahead of time?
You can prep most of the components ahead. Cook the chicken and make the sauce. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to cook, combine everything in the skillet as directed, adding the pasta and broth. This makes assembly even quicker! For more quick dinner ideas, check out these last recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet?
A common pitfall is mushy pasta – avoid this by not over-boiling. Also, ensure your chicken is browned well before adding it back. Lastly, don’t skip browning the chicken, as it adds so much flavor to the whole dish. If you’re looking for other one-pot wonders, you might enjoy this one-pot cheesy chicken and broccoli orzo.
Best Ways to Serve Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet
This incredible chicken parmesan pasta skillet is a meal in itself, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to round out the meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect to cut through the richness of the cheesy pasta. You could also serve it with some focaccia bread for dipping into that amazing sauce. If you’re craving something a bit richer, imagine this served alongside a side dish that complements a creamy chicken parmesan pasta skillet, like steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach. For another Italian-inspired dish, try our cajun lasagna recipe.
Nutrition Facts for Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet
When you make this delicious Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet, here’s a general idea of what you’ll get per serving. It’s a hearty meal that balances protein and carbs nicely, making it a satisfying choice for dinner.
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, you can consult resources on MyPlate.gov.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet
Leftovers of this wonderful chicken parmesan pasta skillet are a treat, not a chore! Once it’s cooled down a bit, portion it into airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, this dish freezes remarkably well. You can store it in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. It’s the perfect way to ensure you always have a satisfying chicken parmesan skillet dinner ready to go.
Reheating is super simple. For refrigerated leftovers, I usually pop them back into a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to help loosen everything up, stirring until heated through. You can also microwave it, covering it loosely to prevent splattering. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first, then use one of these methods. Just be patient, and you’ll have a delicious meal again!
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet
What is Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet?
A Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is a one-pan meal that combines all the beloved flavors of classic chicken parmesan – tender chicken, savory tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese – with pasta, all cooked together in a single skillet. It’s designed for convenience and maximum flavor.
Why make Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet?
You should make this dish because it’s incredibly easy, requires minimal cleanup thanks to the one-pan method, and delivers all the comforting, delicious flavors of chicken parmesan pasta in a fraction of the time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and spaghetti are fantastic choices for this chicken parmesan pasta skillet, feel free to experiment. Short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle also work wonderfully, as their nooks and crannies hold the sauce beautifully. For more pasta inspiration, check out this Mexican street corn pasta salad.
How do I make this a creamy chicken parmesan pasta skillet?
To achieve a creamier texture, you can stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or cream cheese into the sauce just before adding the pasta and chicken. This will give you that delightful richness often associated with a creamy chicken parmesan pasta skillet.
Variations of Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic chicken parmesan pasta skillet, you’ll love exploring these fun twists! For a delightful change, try a chicken parmesan penne skillet; the sauce clings perfectly to the penne pasta. If you prefer longer noodles, the chicken parmesan spaghetti skillet is a classic choice that never disappoints. Feeling adventurous? Swap the chicken for Italian sausage, or for a vegetarian option, use eggplant slices or chickpeas instead of chicken. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat, making it a truly customizable dish. For another flavorful chicken dish, consider this Mediterranean chicken recipe.
Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet: 1-Pan Comfort
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet recipe offers a delicious and convenient way to enjoy classic chicken parmesan flavors in a one-pan meal. It’s an easy chicken parmesan pasta skillet that cooks quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or spaghetti work well)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the pasta and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until pasta is al dente and liquid has thickened. Stir occasionally.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving this chicken parmesan noodle skillet.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
- Adjust pasta cooking time based on the type of pasta used.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skillet serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
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