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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Prepare pasta in boiling water according to package directions, ensuring al dente texture. Thoroughly drain and reserve.
- 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.
- Pour marinara sauce into the skillet, gently coating chicken pieces. Allow sauce to simmer and develop flavors for approximately 5 minutes.
- Incorporate drained pasta into the sauce, tossing thoroughly to ensure complete and even coverage.
- Carefully transfer entire pasta mixture into a preheated baking dish, creating an even layer.
- Generously sprinkle mozzarella cheese across the surface, followed by Parmesan and optional breadcrumbs for added texture.
- Position dish under broiler for 3-4 minutes or bake at 375F (190C) until cheese melts completely and develops a golden, bubbly crust.
- 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