If you’re seeking a delectable meal that combines the comforting essence of Chicken Parmesan with the simplicity of a one-pan dish, look no further than this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet. This recipe offers the perfect blend of golden chicken, rich marinara sauce, and tender pasta crowned with gooey, melted cheeses. It’s a heavenly medley of flavors that brings all the essence of comfort food to your table with minimal fuss. Imagine sinking your fork into succulent pieces of chicken and twirling it around in a rich, savory tomato sauce adorned with Italian herbs, all finished off with the ultimate cheesy goodness—this is the kind of meal that turns any evening into a delightful dining experience.
In our fast-paced lives, we all cherish a meal that can be whipped up quickly without sacrificing on flavor. That’s why this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is a game-changer. In just 35 minutes, you can have a sophisticated dish that feels like it took hours to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when the time is tight but the desire for a satisfying meal is high. Not only does this dish taste incredible, but it also brings families together around the dining table, adding an extra dash of joy to those cherished evening meals.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet
- Time-Saver: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup leaves more time to enjoy your meal and less time at the sink.
- Flavor Packed: Rich, cheesy, and hearty, it easily satisfies even the most demanding taste buds.
- Family Favorite: Perfect for pleasing everyone around the table, from picky eaters to pasta lovers.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this culinary journey, first prepare your workspace to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Set the mood and make the cooking process enjoyable by clearing your countertops and gathering all necessary ingredients. Having a clean, organized kitchen sets the stage for culinary creativity and reduces stress while cooking. The main tool you’ll need is a large, heavy-bottomed skillet with a lid, ensuring even cooking and maintaining the dish’s moisture. Additionally, keep a wooden spoon or spatula handy for stirring to prevent sticking, and have a sharp knife ready for chopping chicken and vegetables. Timing is key, so have a measuring cup nearby to accurately measure the water added to the pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Allow the chicken to cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside for later use.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, keeping all those delicious chicken bits, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, and cook for an additional 30 seconds, releasing its aromatic essence without burning it. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, a tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and a touch of red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Into the simmering sauce, add the penne pasta along with 1 1/2 cups of water. Give everything a good stir to ensure all pasta is submerged, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover with the skillet’s lid. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and the water has mostly evaporated into a silky sauce.
Step 4: Combine and Melt the Cheese
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, return the reserved chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle the dish with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, covering it simply. Let it continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, enabling the cheeses to melt into gooey perfection. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat.
Variations
- Protein: Swap chicken for turkey or even shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Vegetables: Sauté bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onions for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spices: Introduce a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone or thyme for a herby flair.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the skillet is adequately heated before adding chicken to achieve that desirable golden crust.
- Don’t overcook the garlic to prevent bitterness; 30 seconds is ample time for aromatic release.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Tips
- Use freshly grated cheese for optimal melting and flavor in the final dish.
- If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash more water when cooking the pasta.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 650 per serving
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a meat-free version. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure veggies are tender.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or microwave before consuming.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use your preferred pasta, such as fusilli or rigatoni. However, cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta type.
Is this recipe freezer friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
The Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of classic flavors married with modern convenience. The sensational blend of cheesy goodness, aromatic spices, and tender chicken will likely make it a staple in your recipe collection. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it is also versatile enough to accommodate your preferences, allowing you to personalize with different ingredients and variations. Invite your family and friends to savor this dish and watch as they revel in each scrumptious bite. Don’t forget to share your culinary success stories or any imaginative twists you apply to this dish in the comments. You’re bound to inspire others to try this irresistible recipe!
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Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A delightful one-pan dish that combines Chicken Parmesan with pasta in under 35 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Allow the chicken to cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, a tablespoon of Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if desired. Cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add the penne pasta along with 1 1/2 cups of water. Stir to ensure all pasta is submerged, bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer, and cover. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and water has evaporated into a silky sauce.
- Return the reserved chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, cover, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cheeses melt.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Protein: 40 g