5-Ingredient Chicken Parmesan
This 5-Ingredient Chicken Parmesan is a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you crave something comforting yet simple. With just five ingredients, you can whip up a delicious, hearty meal that the whole family will love. The combination of tender chicken, rich spaghetti sauce, and gooey cheese is hard to resist. Plus, it’s a dish that’s perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This 5-Ingredient Chicken Parmesan is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The simplicity of the ingredients means you can focus on the joy of cooking without the stress of complicated techniques. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Italian dish while keeping it healthy and wholesome. Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve it over whole-wheat rigatoni, spaghetti, or even a bed of sautéed vegetables for a lighter option.
What Goes In
To make this 5-Ingredient Chicken Parmesan, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces whole-wheat rigatoni, cooked al dente: A healthier pasta option that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 24 ounces spaghetti sauce, sugar-free, divided: A rich and flavorful base that adds a wonderful depth to the dish.
- 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, part-skim, shredded: For that gooey, melted goodness that ties everything together.
- 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes: Lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- 1/4 cup parmesan, shredded: A sprinkle of this cheese adds an extra layer of flavor and richness.
Essential Tools for Success
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta to perfection.
- Skillet: To sauté the chicken and combine the ingredients.
- Oven-safe baking dish: For baking the assembled dish to achieve that perfect cheesy topping.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing your ingredients seamlessly.
5-Ingredient Chicken Parmesan, Made Easy
Creating this 5-Ingredient Chicken Parmesan is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to make a delicious dinner:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole-wheat rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Add the cubed chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
Step 3: Mix in the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, pour in 12 ounces of the spaghetti sauce (reserve the rest for later). Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together for a couple of minutes.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the chicken and sauce mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and heated through.
Step 5: Bake with Cheese
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to an oven-safe baking dish. Top with the remaining spaghetti sauce, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and finish with the shredded parmesan. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
No-Store Runs Needed
One of the best parts about this 5-Ingredient Chicken Parmesan is that you likely have most of the ingredients already in your pantry or fridge. Here’s a quick list of items you might already have on hand:
- Whole-wheat rigatoni or any pasta you prefer
- Sugar-free spaghetti sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Boneless chicken breasts
- Parmesan cheese
Chef’s Notes
- Feel free to add some Italian herbs such as oregano or basil for an extra flavor boost.
- If you’re looking to add more vegetables, consider mixing in spinach or mushrooms when sautéing the chicken.
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
To keep your 5-Ingredient Chicken Parmesan fresh and delicious:
Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Questions People Ask
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw them before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.
What can I substitute for the whole-wheat rigatoni?
You can swap it for any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, spaghetti, or even a gluten-free pasta option.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with diced eggplant or mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian version of this 5-Ingredient Chicken Parmesan.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center. You can also cut into a piece to check for doneness.
Keep Cooking
If you loved this 5-Ingredient Chicken Parmesan, here are some other recipes you might enjoy:
- Sally’s Baking Addiction for delicious desserts and sweet treats.
- Pinch of Yum for more easy dinner ideas and flavorful recipes.
- Minimalist Baker for simple, plant-based meals that are quick to make.
That’s a Wrap
In just a few simple steps, you can create a delightful and satisfying 5-Ingredient Chicken Parmesan that will impress your family and friends alike. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy the comforting tastes of Italy right in your home, and don’t forget to share your creations! Happy cooking!
5-Ingredient Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole-wheat rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Sauté the Chicken. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Add the cubed chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
- Step 3: Mix in the Sauce. Once the chicken is cooked, pour in 12 ounces of the spaghetti sauce (reserve the rest for later). Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together for a couple of minutes.
- Step 4: Combine with Pasta. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the chicken and sauce mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and heated through.
- Step 5: Bake with Cheese. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to an oven-safe baking dish. Top with the remaining spaghetti sauce, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and finish with the shredded parmesan. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Feel free to add some Italian herbs such as oregano or basil for an extra flavor boost.
- If you’re looking to add more vegetables, consider mixing in spinach or mushrooms when sautéing the chicken.
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days.
