Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Easy, comforting chicken with buttered noodles — weeknight favorite with tips, variations, and step-...
30-35
total time
4
servings
450 kcal
calories
Introduction
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a weeknight hero that marries the flavors of classic chicken Parmesan with the convenience of a single-pot pasta dinner. This recipe delivers juicy, seasoned chicken pieces, al dente pasta, savory tomato sauce, and plenty of melted mozzarella and Parmesan without multiple pans or long cleanup. It is perfect for busy cooks who want a comforting Italian-American meal that comes together quickly. The method uses simmering and quick browning to build flavor, and the pasta cooks directly in the sauce so it absorbs more taste than when boiled separately. In this article you will find an easy ingredient list, step-by-step cooking instructions, helpful equipment notes, and smart tips for variations like using gluten-free pasta or swapping chicken for mushrooms. You will also learn how to finish the dish with fresh basil and extra cheese, plus safe storage and reheat advice so leftovers stay delicious. This introduction outlines what to expect: a 30 to 40 minute cook time, family-friendly portions, and ideas to scale up for guests. Keep reading if you want a reliable, flavorful one-pot pasta that tastes indulgent but is straightforward to prepare any night of the week. Detailed timings and substitutes are included below.
Gathering Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making an authentic-tasting one-pot chicken Parmesan pasta that still comes together quickly. For this recipe you will need boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, dried pasta such as penne or rigatoni, canned crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce, low-sodium chicken broth, minced garlic, onion, dried Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes for heat if you like, shredded mozzarella, freshly grated Parmesan, olive oil, salt and black pepper, and fresh basil for finishing. Optionally add a splash of heavy cream or a knob of butter near the end to enrich the sauce and make the pasta silkier. If you prefer a lighter version choose part-skim mozzarella and omit cream. For gluten-free diets, swap regular pasta for your favorite certified gluten-free shape and confirm the broth is gluten-free. To save time, use pre-grated Parmesan and pre-minced garlic, though fresh always tastes better. Measure everything before you start to streamline the one-pot process; pre-chopped chicken and measured spices keep the cook time tight. Below is a concise ingredient list that balances flavor and convenience so your cooking flow remains uninterrupted while maximizing taste. Buy quality chicken and ripe canned tomatoes for best results. Every ingredient matters.
Equipment & Prep
Having the right equipment and completing simple prep steps makes the one-pot chicken Parmesan pasta fast and foolproof. Start with a wide, heavy-bottomed pot or large deep skillet with lid—12-inch skillets or 4- to 6-quart sauté pans work well because they give space for pasta and sauce to simmer evenly. Use a sharp chef’s knife and a cutting board for dicing onion and trimming chicken. A wooden spoon and tongs are handy for turning chicken and stirring pasta gently so it doesn’t stick. Measure broth and canned tomatoes in liquid measuring cups before cooking to avoid interruptions. If you plan to brown the chicken first, pat pieces dry and season them to promote better caramelization. Pre-shred cheeses or grate fresh Parmesan for superior melting and flavor. Keep a splash of extra-virgin olive oil nearby to finish the dish if desired. Preheat the pan over medium-high heat and use medium-low heat when simmering to prevent scorching. Timing is important: have spices and garnishes ready so you can finish the recipe without rushing. Proper equipment and prep reduce cleanup and support consistent, restaurant-quality results at home. A quick splatter screen and oven mitts are useful, especially when finishing under a broiler. Safely.
Cooking Process
The cooking process for one-pot chicken Parmesan pasta focuses on building layers of flavor while keeping steps straightforward. Begin by seasoning chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a bit of Italian seasoning. Heat oil in the pan and brown the chicken on both sides until golden, then remove and set aside to finish cooking later with the sauce. In the same pot, reduce heat slightly and sauté diced onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom to enrich the sauce. Add dried pasta directly to the simmering tomato mixture, ensuring the pasta is submerged and stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Return chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer gently until pasta is al dente and chicken reaches a safe internal temperature. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan toward the end so cheeses melt into a creamy coating without overcooking. For a bubbled, browned top, transfer the pan under a hot broiler for a minute or two, watching carefully. Finish with fresh basil, an extra sprinkle of cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil for perfume and shine. Serve immediately to enjoy ideal texture. Always.
Tips & Variations
Simple tips and smart variations allow this one-pot chicken Parmesan pasta to suit many tastes and dietary needs while improving results. To prevent soggy chicken, brown pieces in batches so the pan does not steam and the exterior crisps. If pressed for time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken folded in at the end; reduce simmer time so pasta does not overcook. To boost umami, stir in a teaspoon of anchovy paste or a splash of Worcestershire sauce when simmering the tomatoes. Make it smoky by adding a pinch of smoked paprika, or add heat with crushed red pepper flakes. For a vegetarian version swap chicken for firm, meaty mushrooms such as cremini or portobello and use vegetable broth. Gluten-free and low-carb options are possible by using chickpea or lentil pasta, or spiralized vegetables, respectively, but adjust liquid and cooking time accordingly. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley brighten the dish; add them at the end for freshness. When shredding cheese, choose a block of mozzarella for better melting than pre-shredded varieties that contain anti-caking agents. Experiment with a little cream, mascarpone, or ricotta for extra richness, but add sparingly to maintain a balanced sauce. These tips keep the recipe flexible, delicious.
Final Presentation & Serving
Presentation and serving elevate this one-pot chicken Parmesan pasta from homey to restaurant-worthy. Once the cheese has melted and the sauce is glossy, spoon the pasta onto warmed plates or arrange it family-style in the pan for communal serving. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves, a generous grating of Parmesan, and a drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil to add shine and aromatic depth. For texture contrast, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or chopped toasted walnuts when serving, which provide a pleasant crunch against the creamy pasta. Pair the dish with a bright side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Serve with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up extra sauce. If serving to guests, offer lemon wedges and crushed red pepper at the table so diners can customize acidity and heat. For a family approach, place bowls of grated cheese, chopped herbs, and chili flakes within reach so everyone can top their portion. When plating for photos or special occasions, spoon extra sauce across the top and arrange basil leaves deliberately for color contrast. Offer a white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the meal.
Storage & Make-Ahead
This one-pot chicken Parmesan pasta stores and reheats well when handled properly, making it a great candidate for make-ahead meals and leftovers. Cool the dish quickly after cooking by transferring portions into shallow airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours. Properly stored, leftovers will keep for three to four days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to three months; for best texture, under-fill the container slightly to allow for expansion. When reheating refrigerated portions, add a splash of chicken broth or water and warm gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat to restore creaminess without drying the pasta. Microwaving is convenient: stir in a little liquid, cover, and heat in 60-second bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that cheese and sauce may thicken when chilled; adjust consistency by stirring in additional broth, a spoonful of cream, or a pat of butter as it warms. For make-ahead entertaining, cook to just shy of al dente and finish with cheese under the broiler immediately before serving to maintain ideal texture and presentation. Label containers with date. Reheat only once for safety. Consume within recommended timeframes. Always.
Nutrition, Allergens & FAQ
Nutrition and allergen information helps you adapt the one-pot chicken Parmesan pasta to your needs and plan portion sizes. A typical serving provides protein from chicken and cheese, carbohydrates from pasta, and fats from olive oil and dairy; exact calories and macronutrients depend on portion size and ingredient choices. To reduce saturated fat and calories, use part-skim mozzarella and reduce added cheese, or swap in lean chicken breast instead of dark meat. For sodium-sensitive diners, choose low-sodium broth and canned tomatoes or rinse canned tomatoes to lower salt. Common allergens in this recipe include wheat (gluten), dairy, and possibly tree nuts if you use walnuts as a garnish. Use certified gluten-free pasta and check labels on broth and seasonings to avoid hidden gluten. Substitute dairy-free cheeses and omit fresh Parmesan to make the dish vegan-friendly when combined with mushroom alternatives. Below are a few quick FAQs: Q: Can I use frozen chicken? A: Thaw fully and pat dry before browning. Q: Is the cook time affected by pasta shape? A: Yes; long or thicker shapes may need more liquid and time. Q: Can I halve the recipe? A: Yes, adjust pot size and timing accordingly. Enjoy responsibly and adjust seasonings.
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Easy one-pot chicken Parmesan pasta — creamy, cheesy dinner ready in 30–40 minutes. Step-by-step instructions, tips, and make-ahead storage advice.
total time
30-35
servings
4
calories
450 kcal
ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil 🫒
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces 🐔
- 1 tsp garlic powder 🧄
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning 🌿
- Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
- 3 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
- 3 cups chicken broth 🍗
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce 🍅
- 12 oz uncooked pasta (penne or rotini) 🍝
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional) 🌿
instructions
- 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- 2. In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- 3. Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce, stirring to combine with the garlic. Add the uncooked pasta to the pot and mix well so the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- 4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- 5. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir everything together evenly.
- 6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Cover the pot and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become gooey.
- 7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve the pasta hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of Chicken Parmesan in a quick, one-pot meal!
- ✨ Pro Tip: For a touch of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve alongside garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired dinner experience.
related articles
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta
Creamy loaded bacon cheeseburger pasta with ground beef, melted cheddar, pickles, and a savory sauce...
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Lemon Parmesan Linguine
Quick, flavorful garlic butter chicken bites paired with zesty lemon Parmesan linguine — an easy wee...
Pineapple Chicken Wings
Crispy pineapple chicken wings with a sweet-tangy glaze. Easy oven, grill, or air-fryer methods, mar...
Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta — a comforting, quick one-pot meal combining pot pie flavors with tende...
Seafood Pasta Salad
Make a bright, flavorful Seafood Pasta Salad with shrimp, scallops, and fresh vegetables. Easy steps...
Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder
Easy Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder — creamy, savory, loaded with corn and shredded chicke...
Baked Chicken Chimichangas
Easy oven-baked chicken chimichangas with a crispy exterior and flavorful filling. Perfect for weekn...
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Crispy, flavorful Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers — quick, family-friendly, low-carb dinne...