One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Imagine savory chicken, melted cheese, and al dente pasta all coming together in one mouthwatering dish that requires just a single pot. That’s the magic of One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta—a comforting, aromatic twist on the Italian classic that delivers bold flavors without the usual mess and fuss. This genius recipe transforms a traditionally complex, multi-step meal into a weeknight wonder that still maintains all the signature tastes you love. You’ll learn how to create this crowd-pleasing dinner with minimal cleanup while achieving that perfect balance of tangy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese that makes chicken parmesan so irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something undeniably satisfying about One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta that makes it a recurring favorite in countless households. First, the convenience factor is unbeatable—everything cooks in a single pot, meaning fewer dishes and less cleanup time. The pasta absorbs the rich tomato sauce as it cooks, creating deeper flavor than traditional methods where pasta and sauce are prepared separately.

The textural contrast is what makes this dish truly special. Each bite offers tender chunks of seasoned chicken, perfectly cooked pasta with a slight chew, and that signature crispy parmesan topping that bubbles and browns under the broiler for the final touch. The marriage of fresh herbs with garlic-infused tomato sauce creates a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, triggering that anticipatory hunger before you even take your first bite.

For busy home cooks, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between impressive and effortless—a restaurant-quality chicken parmesan pasta that comes together in about 30 minutes with ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients

For this One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta, you’ll need:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta (or other short pasta shape)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 can (28 oz/800g) crushed tomatoes
• 3 cups (720ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (100g) grated parmesan cheese, divided
• 1½ cups (170g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup (15g) fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

The crushed tomatoes provide the authentic tomato base essential for chicken parmesan flavor, while the combination of parmesan and mozzarella delivers that classic cheese pull. Fresh basil adds brightness that balances the rich sauce perfectly.

Pro Tips

Seasoning the Chicken Properly
Don’t rush the first step of seasoning and browning your chicken. This foundational flavor-building technique creates depth in your One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper before adding them to the hot oil, and work in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets a golden crust rather than steaming in an overcrowded pan. This initial browning creates the Maillard reaction, developing complex flavor compounds that will infuse the entire dish.

Pasta Selection and Cooking
Choose pasta shapes that have nooks and ridges to capture the sauce—penne, rotini, or ziti work exceptionally well. When adding the pasta to the pot, ensure it’s completely submerged in liquid, but don’t stir too frequently. Stirring releases starch that can make the dish too thick before the pasta is properly cooked. Test the pasta 2-3 minutes before the package directions suggest—it should be slightly firmer than al dente as it will continue cooking when you add the cheese.

Creating the Perfect Cheese Topping
For that authentic chicken parmesan finish, reserve about ¼ cup of parmesan to mix with the mozzarella for topping. After adding the cheese layer, place the pot under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to achieve a bubbly, golden-brown crust without burning. This quick broiling step transforms a simple pasta dish into a remarkable one pot chicken parmesan dinner with the signature crispy topping everyone loves.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Chicken
Season chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides (it doesn’t need to be cooked through completely). Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Flavor Base
In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits—this is where so much flavor hides! Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the dry pasta directly to the sauce, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Return the browned chicken to the pot along with any accumulated juices. Stir gently to combine. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in ¾ cup of the parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Preheat your broiler while completing this step.

Step 6: Create the Signature Topping
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and remaining parmesan evenly over the top of the pasta. Place the pot under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown in spots—this creates that classic chicken parmesan crust.

Step 7: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving your delicious One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta.

Variations

Vegetable-Packed Version
Transform your One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta into a nutrition-boosted meal by adding vegetables. After cooking the onions, add 1 cup of diced bell peppers, 1 cup of sliced mushrooms, and 2 cups of baby spinach. The peppers and mushrooms will cook down with the sauce, while the spinach can be stirred in just before adding the cheese. This variation adds vibrant color, extra nutrients, and complementary flavors that work beautifully with the tomato base.

Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta
For an indulgent twist, create a creamy version by adding ½ cup of heavy cream or cream cheese after the pasta is cooked but before adding the parmesan. This creates a richer, more decadent sauce while maintaining all the classic chicken parmesan flavors. Finish with the cheese topping as usual for a luscious one pot dinner that’s perfect for special occasions.

Gluten-Free Adaptation
This recipe adapts beautifully to dietary restrictions. Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and adjust the cooking time according to package directions (typically 1-2 minutes less than regular pasta). Be aware that gluten-free pasta often releases more starch, so you might need to add an extra ¼ cup of broth during cooking to maintain the right consistency.

Storage and Serving

One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerated portions will stay fresh for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, then warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. The pasta will absorb sauce as it sits, so this extra liquid helps restore the original consistency.

For serving, pair this hearty dish with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of garlic bread makes the perfect vehicle for scooping up extra sauce. For an elegant presentation, serve in wide, shallow bowls with a sprinkle of additional parmesan and a small basil leaf on top. This casual-yet-sophisticated presentation makes the dish suitable for both family dinners and entertaining friends.

For a complete Italian-inspired meal, consider serving with roasted vegetables like zucchini or broccoli tossed with olive oil, salt, and lemon zest.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe. They tend to stay more tender and juicy, though they may release slightly more fat during cooking. You don’t need to adjust the cooking time significantly.

Why is my sauce too thick/thin?
Pasta brands vary in how much liquid they absorb. If your sauce seems too thick while cooking, add chicken broth ¼ cup at a time. If it’s too thin after the pasta is tender, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, though the pasta will continue to absorb sauce as it sits. Prepare through Step 5, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently with a splash of broth, then add the cheese topping and broil just before serving.

Is there a way to make this vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with 2 cups of roasted vegetables like eggplant and zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian one pot pasta.

My cheese isn’t browning under the broiler. What am I doing wrong?
Ensure your broiler is fully preheated and position the rack in the upper third of the oven. If using a Dutch oven, make sure it’s broiler-safe. For more browning, try a blend of mozzarella with a higher-fat cheese like provolone.

Conclusion

This One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is comfort food at its finest — a brilliant fusion of two beloved classics that delivers all the flavor with just a fraction of the effort. It’s the kind of dish that transforms an ordinary weeknight into a special dinner, bringing everyone to the table with its irresistible aroma and satisfying flavors. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, preparing a casual dinner party dish, or simply craving something hearty and delicious, this recipe delivers every time with minimal cleanup afterward. The perfect balance of convenience and comfort makes this one-pot wonder a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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