Chicken Parm Pasta Recipe: A Cozy, Cheesy Italian-American Classic
Golden breadcrumb topping meets melted mozzarella for an elevated twist on pasta comfort.
If you’re searching for a comforting, easy-to-make, and crowd-pleasing dinner, look no further than Chicken Parm Pasta. This one-pan wonder marries the classic flavors of chicken parmesan with tender pasta, all cooked together in a luscious tomato-based sauce and topped with golden mozzarella and a crispy parmesan-panko crust. It’s hearty, cheesy, and everything you love about Italian-American fare—but convenient enough for a busy weeknight.
Why Chicken Parm Pasta?
This dish combines the best of two worlds: crispy, juicy chicken parmesan and al dente pasta—all in a single skillet. There are fewer dishes to wash, and the classic flavors of garlic, basil, and rich tomato sauce meld together for a meal that’s both nutritious and deeply satisfying. Plus, with a crispy, cheesy topping, this recipe is sure to win over picky eaters and adults alike.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Gather these kitchen staples for a dish that serves 6–8:
- 5 Tbsp. olive oil (divided)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 lb. skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch-thick strips
- 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand
- 1 lb. bucatini or spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh basil, thinly sliced, plus leaves for garnish
- 8 oz. mini mozzarella balls, drained
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crispy Parmesan-Panko Topping
Heat a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and the panko breadcrumbs. Stir to coat the panko in the oil and cook, tossing frequently, until golden and crisp—about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat, let cool, and stir in 1/4 cup of the grated parmesan cheese. Set this topping aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken strips with 1 teaspoon kosher salt. In a large nonstick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook, tossing occasionally, until just browned—about 3 minutes per side. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage; it will finish in the sauce. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. Build the Tomato Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook just until it turns golden—30 seconds to 1 minute. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes for heat, if using. Add the crushed tomatoes, 1 cup water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a simmer and let the sauce thicken, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes.
4. Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy cooking water before draining the pasta.
5. Combine and Finish the Dish
Add the partially cooked chicken and half the basil to the tomato sauce. Return to a simmer. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle in the remaining 1/2 cup parmesan cheese and toss again. Remove the skillet from the heat, scatter in the mini mozzarella balls, and toss gently. Cover and let sit for about 1 minute so the cheese can melt and mingle with the other ingredients. Give everything one final toss, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if it seems too dry.
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6. Garnish and Serve
Top each portion with the reserved parmesan-panko mixture and fresh basil leaves for a colorful, crunchy finish. Serve directly from the skillet for a truly communal, comforting meal.
Tips for the Best Chicken Parm Pasta
- Chicken Cuts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking. If you prefer darker meat, boneless chicken thighs work well too.
- Pasta Choice: Bucatini and spaghetti are classic, but any long pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine) works. Short pasta like rigatoni is also fantastic.
- Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Too thin? Simmer a few extra minutes.
- Cheese Swap: No mini mozzarella? Cut regular mozzarella into small cubes, or use shredded mozzarella.
- Crispy Topping: The panko-parmesan mixture is a must for texture, but you can add fresh breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Make It Your Own: Variations and Add-Ins
This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Add Vegetables: Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach and stir them into the sauce before adding the pasta.
- Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of smoked paprika for depth.
- Herb Variations: Substitute basil with fresh parsley, oregano, or thyme for a different twist.
- Creamy Finish: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Meat Swap: Replace chicken with turkey cutlets or even shrimp for a seafood spin.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Parm Pasta is a complete meal in a bowl, but here are a few accompaniments to round out your dinner:
- Green Salad: A simple arugula or Caesar salad with a tangy dressing balances the richness.
- Garlic Bread: Essential for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini for added nutrition.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the sauce. Microwave works too, but the texture is best on the stovetop.
- Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh due to the cheese and pasta texture, but it can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
Nutrition Profile
While this is a hearty comfort dish, you can make it lighter with a few tweaks:
- Lean Protein: Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein.
- Whole Grain Pasta: Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra fiber and protein.
- Cheese Balance: Use less cheese or reduced-fat varieties if watching calories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use jarred marinara sauce instead of canned tomatoes?
A: Yes, substituting jarred marinara saves time and offers a slightly sweeter, smoother sauce. Use about 3 cups of your favorite marinara and skip the added water.
Q: Do I have to use fresh mozzarella?
A: Fresh mozzarella (mini balls or torn) melts beautifully, but shredded low-moisture mozzarella works too, though the texture will be different.
Q: Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a meatless version.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. Most of the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Q: Can I add pesto to this recipe?
A: Drizzling a little basil pesto over the finished dish adds a herby, nutty layer—try it if you love basil!
Behind the Recipe: Why It Works
Chicken Parm Pasta’s success lies in its clever layering of flavors and textures: crispy chicken, al dente pasta, sweet and tangy tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, crunchy parmesan-panko, and fresh basil. Each element is balanced, and the one-pan method means fewer dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
Wine Pairing
For a classic Italian-American meal, pair this pasta with a medium-bodied red such as Chianti, Sangiovese, or Barbera. These wines have enough acidity and fruitiness to balance the richness of the cheese and sauce. For white wine lovers, a crisp Pinot Grigio or Vermentino is a refreshing contrast.
Family-Friendly Meals That Feel Special
This recipe is more than just dinner—it’s comfort in a skillet. Whether you’re feeding a weeknight crowd or entertaining friends, Chicken Parm Pasta delivers the satisfaction of restaurant-style cuisine with the ease of home cooking. The dish is hearty enough to satisfy teens, comforting for kids, and impressive for guests.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Parm Pasta is a must-try for anyone who loves classic, creamy, cheesy comfort food. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and incredible flavor, it brings the essence of Italian-American dinners to your table—no reservations required.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a34763888/chicken-parm-pasta/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a39476632/air-fryer-chicken-parmesan-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a86017/cheesy-chicken-parmesan-pasta-bake/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a9894/chicken-parmigiana/
- https://parade.com/recipes/the-pioneer-woman-chicken-parmesan
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g37103321/chicken-pasta-recipes/
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