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Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Chicken Parmesan Pasta

This Chicken Parmesan Pasta combines tender chicken, hearty pasta, rich marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, creating a comforting one-dish meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about one cup of pasta water, and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Prepare the chicken. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, season with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
  3. Step 3: Cook the chicken. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  4. Step 4: Build the sauce. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Pour in the marinara sauce, add remaining Italian seasoning, and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Combine everything. Return the chicken to the skillet, add the drained pasta, and toss together. Add reserved pasta water as needed.
  6. Step 6: Add the cheese. Reduce heat to low, stir in half of the mozzarella and half of the parmesan until melted.
  7. Step 7: Broil to perfection. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  8. Step 8: Garnish and serve. Sprinkle with fresh basil and red pepper flakes if using, and serve immediately.

Notes

Use good-quality marinara sauce for best flavor. This dish is adaptable; feel free to substitute proteins, pasta shapes, or add vegetables as desired.