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Homemade One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta photo

One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

A comforting one-pot pasta with tender chicken, marinara, and melted cheeses for an easy weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic or 3 fresh garlic cloves
  • 1.5 pounds chicken breast cubed into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning divided
  • 24 ounces low-sodium chicken broth (3 cups)
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce (3 cups)
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
  • 16 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated

Equipment

  • large Dutch oven or 5–7 quart skillet
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Lid

Method
 

  1. Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and cut them into 1-inch cubes on a cutting board.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large Dutch oven or 5–7 quart skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add 1 tablespoon minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Add the cubed chicken to the pan; season with 1 teaspoon of the Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside and begins to brown, about 4–5 minutes.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, marinara sauce, and 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar, then add the remaining 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and stir gently to combine.
  6. Add the 16 ounces penne pasta, pressing it gently so it is submerged in the liquid.
  7. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook, stirring every 5 minutes, until the pasta is tender, about 13–15 minutes.
  8. When the pasta is tender, sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let sit 2–3 minutes to melt the cheese.
  9. Uncover, gently stir if desired, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Optional breadcrumb topping adds a crispy texture.
  • To make the topping, mix 1 cup breadcrumbs with 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon parsley.
  • In a separate bowl, melt 2 tablespoons butter and combine with the breadcrumbs.
  • Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the finished pasta just before serving.