The Best Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe for Cozy Family Dinners

Whipping up a delectable chicken parmesan pasta can turn an ordinary weeknight into a culinary celebration.

Layers of crispy breaded chicken meld perfectly with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese.

Comfort food reaches new heights when you combine classic Italian flavors in one satisfying dish.

Creamy pasta provides a delightful backdrop for golden-brown chicken pieces that crackle with each bite.

Cheese lovers will adore the generous sprinkle of parmesan and mozzarella blanketing this hearty meal.

Home cooks can master this restaurant-worthy recipe with just a few simple ingredients and some kitchen creativity.

Prepare to impress everyone at the dinner table with this irresistible fusion of chicken and pasta magic.

Why Chicken Parmesan Pasta Satisfies Every Time

• Quick Weeknight Savior: Whip up this delicious chicken parmesan pasta in minutes, perfect for busy families needing a satisfying meal without complicated cooking steps.
• Customize with Ease: Mix in extra veggies, swap chicken types, or adjust seasonings to match your family's taste preferences, making this recipe incredibly flexible.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Combines classic Italian flavors everyone loves, with crispy cheese topping and rich marinara sauce that transforms a simple pasta dish into a restaurant-worthy meal.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal kitchen cleanup required, as most preparation happens in a single skillet before quick baking, saving precious time and reducing dish washing.

Ingredients To Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta

• Chicken: Cooked protein that adds heartiness and flavor to the pasta dish.

• Pasta: Core ingredient that provides the foundation for the recipe.
• Marinara Sauce: Flavorful tomato-based sauce that coats and enhances the dish.

• Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Melty cheeses that create a rich, creamy topping.
• Breadcrumbs: Optional crunchy topping that adds texture to the dish.

• Olive Oil: Cooking fat that helps sauté and add richness.
• Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Spices and seasonings that provide depth and traditional Italian flavor.
• Fresh Basil: Aromatic herb used for garnishing and adding a fresh finish.

How To Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta Easily

Step 1: Boil Pasta Perfectly

Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions.

Once al dente, drain thoroughly in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Sizzle Chicken Mixture

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir ingredients until well combined and heated through.

Step 3: Create Savory Sauce

Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with chicken.

Gently mix to coat chicken evenly.

Allow sauce to simmer for 5 minutes, developing rich flavors.

Step 4: Combine Pasta And Sauce

Add drained pasta to the skillet.

Toss thoroughly until pasta is completely coated with sauce and chicken.

Step 5: Prepare For Baking

Transfer pasta mixture into a greased baking dish.

• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Breadcrumbs (optional)

Step 6: Melt And Brown

Broil for 3-5 minutes or bake at 375°F until cheese melts and turns golden brown with slight crispy edges.

Step 7: Serve And Garnish

Finish by scattering fresh basil leaves on top.

Serve immediately while hot and bubbling.

Chef’s Advice For Parmesan Pasta Lovers

• Choose fresh, ripe marinara sauce and premium mozzarella for the best flavor and creaminess.
• Boil pasta al dente to maintain a firm texture and prevent mushiness when mixed with sauce.
• Ensure cheese is evenly distributed and use room temperature cheese for smoother, faster melting.
• Lightly toast breadcrumbs before sprinkling to enhance their golden-brown crunch and nutty flavor.
• Swap regular pasta with gluten-free options and use plant-based cheese for vegetarian or dairy-free versions.

Pasta – Easy Variations On Chicken Parmesan

• Veggie Lover's Swap: Replace chicken with roasted eggplant or zucchini cubes for a vegetarian version that keeps the same cheesy, saucy goodness.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Use gluten-free pasta and replace breadcrumbs with crushed almond flour or gluten-free panko for a celiac-safe meal.
• Seafood Spin: Substitute chicken with sautéed shrimp or flaky white fish for a protein-packed Mediterranean-inspired dish.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Swap traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining rich flavors.

Serving Up Chicken Parmesan Pasta Perfectly

• Family Feast Delight: Serve this pasta as a hearty main course for weeknight dinners, perfect for satisfying hungry families with its cheesy, comforting goodness.
• Dinner Party Showstopper: Present in a large decorative casserole dish with extra fresh basil sprinkled on top, creating an impressive centerpiece for entertaining guests.
• Meal Prep Champion: Package individual portions in airtight containers for easy lunch options at work or school, maintaining delicious flavor and texture when reheated.
• Side Companion Magic: Pair with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to create a complete and balanced meal that everyone will love.

Smart Ways To Store Chicken Parmesan Pasta

• Transfer leftover chicken parmesan pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and odor absorption.
• Pack the pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months to maintain best quality and taste.
• Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few drops of water to prevent drying. Cover with microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warm.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape like penne, rotini, or fettuccine. Choose a pasta that holds sauce well and has a similar cooking time.

• Is it okay to use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred or dice the chicken before adding to the skillet.

• How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy marinara. You can also sprinkle cayenne pepper or hot sauce to increase the heat level.

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy chicken parmesan pasta blends Italian comfort with cheesy goodness, merging crispy chicken and al dente noodles in a rich marinara sauce. Hearty and satisfying, this dish promises a delightful meal you’ll savor with every forkful.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 12 ounces (340 grams) penne or rigatoni pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cheese and Breadcrumbs:

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Seasonings and Oil:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta in boiling water according to package directions, ensuring al dente texture. Thoroughly drain and reserve.
2. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, introducing cooked chicken and aromatic seasonings. Carefully blend chicken with garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour marinara sauce into the skillet, gently coating chicken pieces. Allow sauce to simmer and develop flavors for approximately 5 minutes.
4. Incorporate drained pasta into the sauce, tossing thoroughly to ensure complete and even coverage.
5. Carefully transfer entire pasta mixture into a preheated baking dish, creating an even layer.
6. Generously sprinkle mozzarella cheese across the surface, followed by Parmesan and optional breadcrumbs for added texture.
7. Position dish under broiler for 3-4 minutes or bake at 375F (190C) until cheese melts completely and develops a golden, bubbly crust.
8. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately while warm and cheese remains gooey.

Notes

• Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions and boost nutritional value.
• Experiment with different protein options like shredded rotisserie chicken, ground turkey, or plant-based alternatives for varied taste and texture.
• Enhance flavor by toasting breadcrumbs with herbs or adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Make ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating gently to maintain pasta’s moisture and prevent cheese from becoming rubbery.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 455 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg