Description
This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is a quick and easy one-pan dinner that combines all the flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan into a hearty, cheesy pasta dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is ready in 30 minutes and packed with flavor!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 2 cups (200g) uncooked penne or rotini pasta
- 2 1/2 cups (600ml) chicken broth
- 1 (24oz/680g) jar marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
For Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups (170g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (25g) panko breadcrumbs (for crunch, optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and mostly cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Add uncooked pasta and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Step 3: Add Chicken & Cheese
- Stir the cooked chicken back into the skillet.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- (Optional) Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
- Cover and let cook for 2-3 minutes on low heat until the cheese melts.
- (Optional) For a golden-brown top, place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and slightly crisp.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
No Oven-Safe Skillet? Transfer to a baking dish before broiling.
Protein Swap: Try ground chicken, turkey, or shrimp instead of chicken breast.
Make it Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of broth.