Description
This one-pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet delivers all the flavors of classic chicken parm — tender cubed chicken, rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese over perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s an easy, cheesy, and satisfying weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes, combining convenience with delicious Italian-American comfort food.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Pan Sauce and Pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz penne or short pasta (uncooked)
Cheese Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and cook for 5–6 minutes until it is lightly browned on all sides and nearly cooked through.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Sauces and Pasta: Stir in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, uncooked penne pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta and chicken. Cover the skillet again and allow the cheese to melt for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm directly from the skillet.
Notes
- For a crispy Parmesan finish, briefly broil the skillet under a high heat to brown the cheese.
- Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.
- For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and monitor cooking time as it may vary.
- Enhance nutrition by adding vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dinner, One-Pan Meal, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
