Description
A family-favorite comfort meal that combines the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan with the ease of a one-pot pasta dish. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade dinner without the mess!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 24 oz marinara sauce (good quality)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- 3 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add seasoned chicken to the hot pot and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Try not to stir too frequently to allow proper browning.
- Remove chicken from pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add pasta, marinara sauce, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine, making sure all pasta is submerged in liquid.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is almost al dente.
- Return cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover pot and let cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Keep 1 cup of pasta water aside in case sauce needs thinning
- Use high-quality marinara sauce for best results
- Fresh mozzarella can be substituted for pre-shredded
- Don’t skip browning the chicken – it adds essential flavor
- Stir gently to avoid breaking pasta
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 585
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 45g