One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the perfect kind of comfort food for those nights when you want something hearty, cheesy, and easy to make. Tender pieces of seasoned chicken are combined with pasta, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melted Parmesan and mozzarella, giving you all the cozy flavors of classic chicken Parmesan in one delicious dish.

I love this recipe because it brings everything together in one satisfying meal without making dinner feel complicated. It’s warm, filling, and family-friendly, with that irresistible combination of crispy, savory chicken, saucy pasta, and gooey cheese. Best of all, it’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but delicious enough to make everyone excited for dinner.

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Scrape the bottom of the skillet gently with a wooden spoon to mix in the flavorful bits left from the chicken.

Step 3: Add the Sauce and Pasta

Pour the marinara sauce and chicken broth into the skillet and stir well. Add the uncooked penne pasta and make sure it is mostly covered by the sauce. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

Let the pasta cook for about 12–15 minutes, stirring every few minutes so it does not stick to the bottom. Check the pasta near the end of the cooking time. If it looks too dry before the pasta is tender, add a small splash of chicken broth or water and continue cooking until the pasta is soft.

Step 5: Add the Chicken and Cheese

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir it into the pasta and sauce. Add the Parmesan cheese and mix until it melts into the sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, then cover the skillet for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and wonderfully gooey.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the lid and sprinkle the finished Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet with fresh chopped parsley. Let it rest for a minute or two so the sauce can settle. Serve it warm with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or your favorite vegetable side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Skillet Dinner – Everything cooks in one skillet, which means fewer dishes to wash after dinner.
• Quick and Easy – This recipe is simple enough for a busy weeknight and does not require complicated cooking steps.
• Full of Cheesy Goodness – Parmesan and mozzarella melt together to create a delicious, cheesy topping that makes every bite comforting.
• Tender, Flavorful Chicken – The chicken is seasoned with Italian herbs and cooked until golden, giving the dish plenty of flavor.

Tips and Shortcuts

• Use Rotisserie Chicken – Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken. Add it near the end just to warm it through.
• Pick Quick-Cooking Pasta – Penne, rotini, and small shells work well and cook nicely in the skillet.
• Use Jarred Marinara – A good store-bought marinara sauce makes this recipe much faster and still gives you plenty of tomato flavor.
• Make It Extra Cheesy – Add a little more mozzarella and Parmesan if you want a thicker, cheesier topping.

What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

This chicken Parmesan pasta skillet is one of those comforting meals I love making for my family on a busy evening. I like serving it warm with a simple green salad and some crusty garlic bread, while my husband enjoys his with Lemonade . The combination of tender chicken, cheesy pasta, and rich tomato sauce makes this an easy dinner that everyone looks forward to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover cooked chicken ?

Absolutely. Leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken can save time. Simply add the cooked chicken near the end and heat it through.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free ?

Yes. Use gluten-free pasta and make sure your marinara sauce, broth, and other packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Can I use water instead of chicken broth ?

Yes. Water will work, although chicken broth gives the pasta more flavor. Vegetable broth is another good option.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts ?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work very well. They are juicy and flavorful, so they make a great substitute for chicken breasts.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3–4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to keep the pasta moist.

Freezer Storage

Freeze cooled portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat with a little broth or water.

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