Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Pasta
- Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner
- Simple Ingredients, Bold Flavors
- Your New Go-To Pasta Recipe
- Tips for the Perfect Pasta Dish
- Frequently Asked Questions
- The Full Recipe
- Notes & Tips
Key Takeaways
This One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate solution for a busy weeknight. It delivers classic Italian comfort food flavors—tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese—in just one pot. Forget complicated steps and a sink full of dishes; this recipe is all about simplicity, making it a perfect easy pasta recipe for the whole family to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta
Hello there! I’m Patricia from Patricia Universe. If you’re searching for a delicious, pasta easy recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl, you’ve found it. I created this one-pot wonder because, let’s be honest, who has time for elaborate cooking and endless cleanup after a long day? This dish brings the cozy, cheesy goodness of chicken parmesan straight to your pasta bowl, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. It’s the kind of simple pasta dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner
We all have those evenings when time is short, but hunger is big. That’s where a reliable easy pasta recipe like this one saves the day. Everything cooks together in a single pot, which means the pasta soaks up all the savory flavors of the sauce as it simmers. This method not only creates an incredibly rich and cohesive dish but also leaves you with just one pot to wash. It’s the smart, stress-free way to get a hearty meal on the table, fast.
Simple Ingredients, Bold Flavors
Don’t let the short ingredient list fool you. This recipe is a masterclass in building deep flavor with pantry staples. The ground chicken cooks quickly and stays tender, while the garlic, herbs, and touch of red pepper flake create a robust base. As the pasta cooks right in that flavorful broth and marinara, it transforms into something truly special—each bite is perfectly seasoned and wonderfully satisfying.
Your New Go-To Pasta Recipe
This isn’t just another dinner; it’s your new secret weapon. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, need impressive leftovers for lunch, or are hosting a casual get-together, this pasta dish delivers. It’s incredibly adaptable, too. Not a fan of chicken? Swap in ground turkey or plant-based crumbles. Want it extra cheesy? Add a sprinkle of fresh mozzarella at the end. Once you try this easy recipe for pasta, it will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Dish
For the best results, use a short pasta shape like penne or rigatoni that can hold the sauce well. Make sure to give the pot an occasional stir while the pasta simmers to prevent sticking. If you love a crispy, golden cheese topping, a quick 2-3 minutes under the broiler works wonders. And remember, the pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so serve it nice and hot for the perfect creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
What if I don’t have ground chicken? No problem. Ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even lean ground beef are fantastic substitutes that work beautifully in this quick and easy recipe.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Yes, it freezes very well. Portion it into airtight containers once cooled. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
The Full Recipe
Ready to make this family-favorite meal? Head over to the recipe card for the complete list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create your own perfect pot of easy recipes for dinner.
Notes & Tips
For a lighter version, use low-fat cheeses or increase the ratio of Parmesan to mozzarella. Feel free to sneak in some spinach or diced zucchini with the onions for an extra veggie boost. Leftovers taste even better the next day, making this a perfect healthy easy recipe for meal prep!
Easy One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground chicken (or ground turkey/beef)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) short pasta, like penne or rigatoni
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Chicken and Aromatics
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground chicken, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 5-6 minutes until no longer pink.
- Add diced onion and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
Simmer the Pasta
- Pour in marinara sauce and chicken broth. Add oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
- Add the uncooked pasta, pressing it down to submerge in the liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
Add Cheese and Serve
- Remove from heat. Stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Top with remaining cheeses. Cover for 2-3 minutes to let the cheese melt.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.
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