Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe best Classic Comfort Food Made Easy

When the world gets too much, a plate of Chicken Parmesan Pasta can be a real comfort. It’s more than food; it’s a warm hug, a cherished memory, and a feeling of being home. Imagine the pasta, marinara, chicken, and cheese all coming together in a delicious mix. Each bite takes you back to happy times with family or cozy nights after a long day.

This easy chicken parmesan pasta recipe brings back those joyful moments with every bite. It’s a way to share love and togetherness through food.

Making homemade chicken parmesan pasta is simple and rewarding. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dish that delights everyone. Let this classic dish fill your kitchen with amazing smells and make memories with every bite.

Introduction to Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a mix of two Italian favorites: chicken parmesan and pasta. It’s a hearty meal that combines crispy chicken, tasty marinara sauce, and melted cheese with pasta. It’s a classic dish perfect for weeknights or family meals.

This dish has a Mediterranean taste that many love. The tomato sauce, seasonings, and cheeses make it a comfort food like no other. Making chicken parmesan pasta is easy. You just fry the chicken, layer it with pasta and sauce, and enjoy a meal that feels like Italy.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

This easy chicken parmesan pasta recipe is simple and full of flavor. You can make a comforting meal in just 30 minutes. It uses common ingredients like panko, chicken, marinara sauce, and fresh cheeses.

One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to clean up. It’s made in one pan, so cooking and cleaning are a breeze. You toast panko, cook chicken, and mix it all in one pot. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.

You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for 3 months. This makes it great for meal prep. Each serving has 607 kcal, 51g carbs, 45g protein, and 24g fat.

The dish combines gooey mozzarella, tender chicken, and savory marinara for a delicious taste. Using high-quality ingredients like Rao’s® marinara sauce and fresh cheeses makes it even better. You can add a crunchy panko topping or enjoy it as a comforting one-dish meal.

Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Parmesan Pasta

To make a tasty homemade chicken parmesan pasta, you need the right ingredients. This dish combines flavors and textures for a comforting meal. It’s sure to please everyone at your table.

Essential Ingredients

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb) cut into cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ⅛-¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2½ cups low sodium chicken broth
• 400 grams uncooked penne pasta (14 oz or about 4 slightly heaped cups)
• 650 ml tomato marinara sauce (2½ cups)
• 2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup Panko bread crumbs
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Optional Ingredients for Personalization

Want to make your baked chicken parmesan pasta special? Add these optional ingredients:

• Sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition
• Additional herbs such as fresh basil or parsley for enhanced flavor
• Different types of cheese, like provolone or fontina, to vary the taste

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Preparing delicious chicken parmesan pasta is easy and comforting. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to get ready for your dish.

Next, season 2 cups of diced chicken tender pieces with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is well-coated with spices for better flavor.

In the pan, mix 2-1/2 cups of rotini pasta, 1-1/2 cups of chicken broth, 2-1/4 cups of marinara sauce, and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and stir well to blend the flavors.

Evenly place the seasoned chicken on top of the pasta mix. Be careful not to overlap the chicken pieces for even cooking.

Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and stir the mix again. This ensures even cooking.

Now, add a cheesy topping. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese on top. Add 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.

Put the dish back in the oven without foil and bake for another 20 minutes. This will make the top golden brown. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving. You can garnish with fresh basil for a fresh touch.

This dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Cooking in the air fryer takes 6-8 minutes on each side, plus 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese. Each serving has 381 kcal, 50g of protein, making it a healthy dinner option.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Getting your easy chicken parmesan pasta recipe just right takes some effort. You need to focus on cooking techniques and adding extra flavors. Follow these tips to make this dish a hit every time.

Cooking Techniques

Begin by seasoning the chicken with sea salt and Italian herbs. Fry the chicken on medium-high heat until it’s golden on both sides. This keeps the chicken moist and juicy.

For the sauce, mix flour, chicken stock, and heavy cream. Simmer until it thickens. Cooking the pasta al dente is key, so it stays firm. Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce later if it’s too thick.

Flavor Enhancements

Boost your dish’s flavor with fresh herbs or garlic butter. A crispy panko breadcrumb topping adds a nice crunch. Make panko breadcrumbs ahead of time to save time.

Make your tomato sauce early and refrigerate it for up to four days. Freezing leftover sauce in an airtight container is also a good idea. This way, you always have a flavorful base ready.

When reheating, add a bit of water to the sauce. Reheat the chicken in the air fryer or oven to keep it crispy. Storing pasta and chicken separately helps keep them fresh and prevents sogginess.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta

To make creamy chicken parmesan pasta, start by getting your ingredients ready. Cook the chicken until it’s golden and tender. Use 12 oz. of frozen breaded chicken cutlets and follow the package’s cooking instructions. Let them cool and cut into strips.

Add heavy cream or cream cheese to the marinara sauce for a creamy touch. Use 4 cups of marinara sauce, whether store-bought or homemade. Heat it gently while whisking in 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 cups of heavy cream. This makes the sauce rich and perfect for your dish.

Choose 1 lb. of short pasta, like cavatappi, and cook it until al dente. Drain it well. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil. Sauté 1 small yellow onion until it’s translucent. Add 2 finely chopped garlic cloves and cook until fragrant.

Pour the creamy marinara mixture over the pasta in the skillet. Stir until well combined. Add ½ cup of finely grated Parmesan into the mix.

Layer your dish for the best presentation. Top the pasta with more Parmesan and sprinkle ¾ cup of shredded mozzarella evenly. Arrange your chicken strips on top.

Bake everything in a preheated oven at 400° for 10 to 12 minutes. The cheese will melt, and the chicken will be hot. Serve with freshly ground black pepper, torn fresh basil, and extra Parmesan.

Serving Suggestions for Your Classic Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Your classic chicken parmesan pasta is great on its own. But it’s even better with some thoughtful pairings. Try it with linguine and broccoli for a nutritious and colorful meal.

For a nice crunch, add crispy zucchini chips. A fresh green salad, like spinach or arugula, also pairs well. It makes your meal even more enjoyable.

Garlic knots or garlic bread add to the Italian flavor. You can also serve it with cheese manicotti or eggplant Parmesan. For something different, try caramelized onions or peas.

There are many ways to serve this dish, each making it special. It’s a chance to enjoy a mix of flavors and textures. So, go ahead and explore these options for a memorable dining experience.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Keeping chicken parmesan pasta fresh is key. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, you can enjoy it for 3-4 days.

There are many ways to reheat chicken parmesan pasta. Each method keeps it tasty:

• Oven: Put the pasta in a container safe for the oven. Cover it with foil and heat at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. This makes the cheese melt well.
• Air Fryer: Heat the air fryer to 350°F. Put the pasta in the basket and heat for 5-8 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm the pasta gently in a skillet with a lid over medium heat.

If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of water or chicken broth. This keeps it moist and delicious, just like the first time.

Nutritional Information of Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Knowing the nutritional facts of Chicken Parmesan Pasta is key for smart eating. A single serving has about 715 calories. It’s a mix of carbs, protein, and fat.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional information chicken parmesan pasta:

The dish is rich in protein, making it satisfying. But, it has a lot of sodium and saturated fat. These are things to think about when you’re planning meals. You can adjust the portion sizes or the ingredients to meet your dietary needs.

Variations of the Best Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Chicken parmesan pasta offers endless possibilities. Families can enjoy the classic dish while making it their own. Whether you like traditional meat or plant-based options, there’s something for everyone.

Vegetarian Options

For vegetarian options, try using diced eggplant or zucchini instead of chicken. These vegetables can be breaded and baked until golden. This keeps the classic flavors everyone loves.

Consider using rigatoni or farfalle as the pasta base. Each bite is a comforting experience. You can also add mushrooms, capsicum, broccoli, sundried tomatoes, or kale for extra flavor and color.

For a crispy texture, add a panko breadcrumb topping. This adds a nice crunch. You can cook this dish in a cast iron skillet or stockpot, making it perfect for meal prep.

This recipe cooks in just 30 minutes and serves 6. Each serving has about 604 calories. It’s a great option for weeknight dinners without feeling guilty.

Making Meal Prep Easy with Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Meal prep chicken parmesan pasta makes your weekly meal planning simple. It’s a tasty dish that’s easy to reheat. It’s perfect for when you’re busy.

This recipe is a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a snap. You can make big batches on weekends. Then, portion them out for quick meals during the week.

This dish stays fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days and freezes for 2-3 months. It’s ready in 30 minutes, with a total prep and cooking time of about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Each serving has 715 calories, 46g of protein, and 29g of fat.

Conclusion

Chicken parmesan pasta is a tasty, simple dish that captures the heart of Italian cooking. It has a creamy texture, flavorful garlic, and rich Parmesan. This makes it a comforting meal for any time.

It’s quick to make, ready in just 35 minutes. This makes it perfect for family dinners or when you have guests over.

This dish can be made your own, fitting different tastes and sides. Using fresh ingredients and the right cooking methods ensures great flavor. Plus, it’s easy to clean up, making it great for busy nights or parties.

Chicken parmesan pasta is perfect for any occasion, big or small. It’s a dish that combines ease with flavor, making it a favorite in any home. It’s a meal that not only tastes great but also brings people together.

Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: ~650 Protein: ~45g Carbohydrates: ~65g Fat: ~20g

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Ingredients

  

• For the Tomato Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons extravirgin olive oil
• 2 medium garlic cloves peeled and crushed
• 1 28ounce can crushed tomatoes
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon sugar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Pasta:
• 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
• For the Chicken Cutlets:
• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (6 to 8 ounces each), halved crosswise
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup dry bread crumbs
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• ¼ cup extravirgin olive oil
• ½ cup grated partskim mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
• In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over mediumhigh heat.
• Add the crushed garlic cloves and cook until they start to sizzle.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
• Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 to 12 minutes until it thickens slightly.
• Cover and keep warm. (Note: This recipe makes extra sauce—store half for another meal!)
• Step 2: Cook the Pasta
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package directions (usually about 12 minutes) until al dente.
• Drain and set aside, keeping warm.
• Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
• Place the chicken pieces between two sheets of plastic wrap.
• Using a mallet or heavy pan, pound the chicken to about ¼inch thickness.
• In a shallow dish, beat the egg until well blended.
• In another dish, season the bread crumbs with black pepper.
• Step 4: Bread and Fry the Chicken
• Preheat the oven broiler to high and set a rack 4 to 5 inches from the heat source.
• Dip each chicken cutlet into the beaten egg, then coat evenly with the seasoned bread crumbs.
• Place breaded cutlets on a wire rack over a cookie sheet (this helps the breading stay crisp).
• In a 12inch skillet, heat ¼ cup olive oil over mediumhigh heat until shimmering.
• Fry each cutlet for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
• Transfer the fried cutlets to a clean wire rack on a baking sheet.
• Step 5: Broil the Chicken with Cheese
• Top each cutlet with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Broil for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown in spots.
• Step 6: Assemble and Serve
• Divide the pasta onto 4 plates.
• Place a chicken cutlet on top of each portion of pasta.
• Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of tomato sauce over each chicken cutlet.
• Drizzle additional sauce over the pasta, if desired.
• Serve with extra Parmesan cheese at the table.

Notes

Serving Suggestions
Pair this Chicken Parmesan Pasta with a side of garlic bread, a fresh Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.

Tips & Variations
Crispier Chicken: Let the breaded chicken rest for 5 minutes before frying to help the coating stick.
Baked Option: Instead of frying, bake breaded cutlets at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Extra Flavor: Add red pepper flakes or fresh basil to the sauce for extra heat and aroma.