When comfort calls and you’re short on time, this Easy One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta answers deliciously. Picture this: tender chunks of seasoned chicken, coated in melted cheese and laid over rich marinara-drenched pasta. It’s like a cozy Italian-American hug in a bowl. All made in one pot, this dish brings together classic flavors with minimal fuss.

What makes this meal such a standout is its versatility and crowd-pleasing charm. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch, you’ll appreciate how easily it comes together. The cheesy, savory sauce clings to the pasta and chicken perfectly, and every bite is a flavor-packed reward.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal here because they cook quickly and hold their shape nicely in the sauce. You could also substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier, slightly richer option. Either way, cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces ensures even cooking and easy serving.

Ingredients for the Easy One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Chicken Breasts: Lean and easy to cook, they provide the hearty protein base.
Pasta (like fettuccine or penne): Use a pasta that holds sauce well. Penne and rotini work beautifully.
Marinara Sauce: A good-quality jarred marinara or your homemade version adds depth and richness.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into the sauce for gooey, stringy indulgence.
Parmesan Cheese: For that salty, nutty finish that ties everything together.
Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
Garlic: Adds essential aromatics.
Salt and Pepper: To season the chicken and bring balance to the final dish.
Fresh Basil Leaves: For a bright, fragrant garnish that freshens the rich flavors.

How To Make the Easy One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot pan. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This step builds an aromatic base that will enhance the marinara.

Step 3: Add the Sauce and Pasta

Pour in your marinara sauce, followed by an equal amount of water or low-sodium chicken broth. Stir to combine. Add the pasta directly into the pot, making sure it is mostly submerged in the liquid.

Step 4: Simmer Until Al Dente

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is just al dente. This usually takes around 10-12 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.

Step 5: Return Chicken and Add Cheese

Return the seared chicken to the pot and stir it into the sauce. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan over the top. Cover and let it sit for a few minutes, just until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly torn basil leaves and a final crack of black pepper. Serve hot, straight from the pot.

Serving and Storing Easy One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

This pasta dish is best served hot and fresh, straight from the pot. It makes a satisfying main course on its own, but you can round it out with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a full Italian-style meal. The cheesy top layer is especially luscious right after melting, so don’t wait too long to dig in.

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works well. Just add it in Step 5 and skip the searing process.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pastas like penne, rigatoni, or rotini are great because they cook evenly and hold onto the sauce nicely.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to a month. Reheat slowly and stir frequently to help the texture recover.

Is this dish spicy?

Not by default, but you can add red pepper flakes in Step 2 if you’d like a little heat.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or eggplant and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Give it a good stir every few minutes as it simmers, especially early on.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

You might also like the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni, a creamy, rich blend with a hint of spice that leans on comfort. Or dive into the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, which layers hearty textures and creamy flavor in every bite.

For another one-pot winner, the One Skillet Smoky Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta brings bold Southern flavors to your weeknight table. And if you’re after more of a casserole approach, the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole delivers pasta-night satisfaction with a pizza twist.

Or give the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta a go — it has just the right kick to balance its smooth, velvety sauce.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go for penne or something twisty like rotini? Did you top it with extra cheese or fresh herbs? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others personalize it.

Easy One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A one-pot wonder that brings together tender chicken, flavorful marinara, and melty cheese for a pasta night that’s hearty and easy. This comforting dish comes together quickly and satisfies with every gooey, garlicky bite.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper; sear until browned (5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (30 seconds).
Pour in marinara sauce and water (or broth). Stir well.
Add pasta and ensure it is mostly submerged.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Return chicken to the pot. Stir and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Cover and let cheese melt for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner