Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is a one-pan meal that combines crispy, golden chicken with tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese. This dish has all the flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan but is easier and faster to make, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Family Favorite – A comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish everyone will love.
• No Deep Frying – Get crispy chicken without the hassle of frying.
• Customizable – Use different pasta shapes or add veggies for variety.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• All-purpose flour
• Egg, beaten
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Olive oil

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini)
• Marinara sauce
• Chicken broth or water
• Garlic, minced
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken – In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
2. Bread the Chicken – Dredge the chicken pieces in flour, dip into the beaten egg, then coat with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Cook the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken pieces for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Pasta and Sauce:

4. Sauté Garlic – In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add Pasta and Sauce – Pour in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, and uncooked pasta. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

Assemble and Finish:

6. Add the Chicken – Return the crispy chicken to the skillet and gently mix with the pasta.
7. Melt the Cheese – Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan over the top. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve – Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Vegetable Add-Ins – Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
• Creamy Version – Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
• Extra Crispy Chicken – Bake breaded chicken pieces at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes instead of pan-frying.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes! Skip the breading and add shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works best for holding the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything up to the point of adding cheese, then refrigerate. Reheat and add cheese before serving.

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Add the chicken just before serving to maintain its crunch.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Absolutely! A homemade sauce will enhance the flavor even more.

How do I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the cheese, or add extra veggies.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! Try provolone, fontina, or a mix of Italian cheeses.

What side dishes pair well with this?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this meal perfectly.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely! The cheesy pasta and crispy chicken make it a hit with kids.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is an easy, delicious, and comforting meal that brings together all the flavors of Chicken Parmesan in a simple one-pan dish. With crispy chicken, cheesy pasta, and a rich marinara sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Try it today and enjoy a homemade Italian-inspired favorite!

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