Chicken Parmesan Pasta
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Chicken Parmesan Pasta. This dish combines the delightful flavors of classic chicken parmesan with the hearty satisfaction of pasta, making it a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, this recipe is simple yet full of flavor. With a crispy topping of melted cheese, marinara sauce, and tender chicken, it’s a meal that brings everyone to the table. Let’s dive into the details of creating this delicious dish that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Chicken Parmesan Pasta is not just another pasta dish; it’s a fusion of two beloved classics. The ground chicken provides a lighter alternative to traditional chicken parmesan, while the addition of pasta makes it filling and satisfying. The use of high-quality marinara sauce, like Rao’s, elevates the flavor profile, ensuring a rich and savory base. Plus, with just one pot needed for cooking, it’s a breeze to prepare and clean up afterward.
The Essentials
- Pasta: 12 ounces of small or medium pasta such as ziti or penne, perfect for holding onto the sauce.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a rich flavor.
- Onion and Garlic: 1/2 cup diced white onion and 4 cloves of garlic for a fragrant base.
- Ground Chicken: 1 pound, a lean protein that cooks quickly.
- Marinara Sauce: 24 ounces, I recommend Rao’s for its superior taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon for a hint of heat.
- Cheeses: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan and 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella for that gooey, cheesy topping.
- Basil: Optional for garnishing, adding a fresh touch.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Large Pot: For boiling pasta.
- Skillet: To cook the chicken and sauté the vegetables.
- Spatula: For stirring the ingredients.
- Baking Dish: To combine and bake the pasta mixture.
- Oven: To melt the cheese to perfection.
Method: Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add 12 ounces of your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of diced white onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Add 1 pound of ground chicken to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If you prefer, you can also use diced boneless skinless chicken breasts, but ground chicken provides a more tender texture.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Spices
Pour in 24 ounces of marinara sauce, stirring to combine. Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce mixture. Gently stir until the pasta is well coated.
Step 6: Cheese It Up
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. For an extra crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Top with fresh basil if desired, and dig into your hearty Chicken Parmesan Pasta!
Fit It to Your Goals
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Protein Boost: Add more chicken or incorporate some cooked chickpeas for extra protein.
- Vegetarian Variant: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a plant-based option.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Mistakes That Ruin Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Even the most seasoned cooks can make errors that impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure you cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Using Low-Quality Sauce: Opt for a flavorful marinara like Rao’s; it makes a significant difference.
- Skipping the Cheese: Don’t skimp on the cheese; it’s essential for that creamy, gooey topping.
- Not Letting It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking to set before serving.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This Chicken Parmesan Pasta can easily be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Your Top Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti and penne work wonderfully, feel free to use your favorite short pasta. Just ensure it cooks to al dente for the best texture.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even lentils for a hearty vegetarian version. You can also explore other recipes like Ricotta Stuffed Shells for more plant-based ideas.
How can I add more flavor to the sauce?
To enhance the marinara sauce, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano, or sautéing some red bell peppers along with the onions for extra sweetness.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in an Instant Pot?
Yes! For an even quicker version, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot. Check out our detailed guide on Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan for tips.
Next Steps
Now that you have a complete guide to making Chicken Parmesan Pasta, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This dish is sure to impress your family and friends, and it’s easy enough to whip up any night of the week. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media, and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!
Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add 12 ounces of your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of diced white onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add 1 pound of ground chicken to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in 24 ounces of marinara sauce, stirring to combine. Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce mixture. Gently stir until the pasta is well coated.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. For an extra crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Top with fresh basil if desired, and dig into your hearty Chicken Parmesan Pasta!
Notes
- For a low-carb option, consider using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
- Add more ground chicken or cooked chickpeas for extra protein.
- For a vegetarian version, swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
- Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Make-ahead by preparing up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake later.
