Ah, Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet—where comfort food meets convenience in the best way possible! This dish holds a special spot in my heart (and stomach) because it’s the perfect weeknight meal when you want something that feels fancy but requires minimal effort. I can still remember the first time I made this for friends on a cozy Friday night. We were all a bit tired from the week, and I wanted to whip up something delicious that didn’t require a lot of cleanup afterward. This recipe not only satisfied our cravings but also sparked a spontaneous sing-along to our favorite tunes!
What makes this recipe truly unique is the delightful combination of tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and plenty of gooey cheese, all tossed together with pasta for a one-pan wonder. I love that I can sit down with a hearty bowl of this comfort food with family or a few good friends, and there’s always enough to go around. Plus, the leftovers are just as fantastic the next day—if there are any left!
What’s in Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet?
Let’s break down the star ingredients of this hearty dish:
Chicken Breast: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe for their tenderness and quick cooking. They’re also a great source of lean protein, essential for keeping our energy levels up—a big win in my book!
Marinara Sauce: The backbone of this dish! I opt for a good quality jarred marinara sauce because, honestly, sometimes I just don’t have the time to make my own from scratch. Look for one with no added sugars for a healthier option.
Pasta: I like using penne or rotini because they hold onto the sauce beautifully. Whole grain or gluten-free options work just fine if that’s more your speed!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Because what’s Chicken Parmesan without a cheesy layer? The melty goodness is non-negotiable and brings everything together deliciously.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is the secret to imparting that authentic Italian flavor. Don’t skimp on this part!
Spices: A blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes adds depth to the dish, not to mention a little heat if you like it spicy!
Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken, a good quality olive oil not only enhances the flavor but is also a heart-healthy fat.
Fresh Basil (optional): If you have it on hand, fresh basil adds a bright touch that elevates the dish to gourmet status!
Is Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet Good for You?
Absolutely! But as with any meal, moderation is key.
Chicken Breast: A great source of lean protein! It helps in muscle repair and keeps you feeling full, which is perfect after a long day.
Marinara Sauce: Packed with antioxidants like lycopene, marinara has many nutritional benefits, especially when it’s made with fresh tomatoes. Just watch for added sugars and sodium in store-bought versions.
Pasta: While pasta offers carbohydrates for energy, whole grain choices increase fiber intake, making them filling and heart-healthy.
Cheese: While delicious, it’s good to remember that cheese can be high in saturated fats and calories, so a little goes a long way.
Overall, this dish can be a balanced meal when enjoyed with a side of salad or veggies to round out your intake.
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups marinara sauce (your favorite brand)
– 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
– Serves 4
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet?
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes. Make sure all the chicken is well-coated!
3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and marinara. Stir to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the mixture.
5. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and let it cook for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot!
Time-Saving Tips & Personal Touches for Your Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet
Don’t be afraid to mix things up! You can swap out the chicken for cooked sausages, or even sauté some spinach or zucchini along with the chicken for an extra serving of veggies. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
Leftovers? I recommend storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for that melty cheese goodness, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
I hope you give this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet a try! It’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine. Let me know how it turns out, and if you have any fun variations, I’d love to hear about them!
