Hey there, fellow food lover! If you’re in the mood for something cozy, comforting, and totally drool-worthy, then I’ve got just the recipe for you: Chicken Parm Pasta! Trust me, this dish is a game-changer. We’re talking crispy, golden-brown chicken, melty cheese, and rich tomato sauce all tangled up with pasta—pure comfort food magic. So, if you’re craving something that’ll warm you up from the inside out, this is it. Grab your apron, and let’s dive in!
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Why You’ll Love Chicken Parm Pasta
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of Chicken Parm Pasta—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
- Chicken Breasts: The star of the show. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts become melt-in-your-mouth tender as they soak up all those dreamy flavors.
- Pasta: Choose your favorite! Whether it’s spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni, it’ll all work perfectly.
- Tomato Sauce: A rich, savory sauce that brings everything together. It’s the backbone of the dish and what makes each bite so irresistible.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melty, gooey goodness that makes the dish come alive.
- Parmesan Cheese: For that extra layer of flavor and a hint of nutty richness.
- Breadcrumbs: For that crispy, golden topping you just can’t beat.
- Eggs: Help bind everything together, creating a crispy coating on the chicken.
- Olive Oil: To cook the chicken to perfection and give it that crispy edge.
- Italian Seasoning: The perfect blend of herbs to add an authentic touch.
- Garlic: Because what’s a pasta dish without a little garlic kick?
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures even cooking and gives your dish the right texture.
Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dip each chicken breast in the egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. Heat some olive oil in a pan and cook the chicken until golden and crispy on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Assemble the Dish: Spread a layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish. Add the cooked pasta on top of the sauce, then place the crispy chicken breasts over the pasta. Spoon more tomato sauce over the chicken, then sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Finishing Touches: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for that perfect finishing touch.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy! Whether it’s paired with a side salad or served on its own, this recipe is sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 520
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve Chicken Parm Pasta
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
- Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
- As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
- Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
- Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs?
A1: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work perfectly, and they’re even juicier than breasts, so they’re a great option if you want a bit more flavor.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead recipe. Prepare it, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it just before serving.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! If you’re feeding a crowd, this recipe doubles beautifully. Just make sure to use a larger baking dish.
Q7: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A7: Yes, you can substitute gluten-free pasta for the regular pasta to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Q8: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A8: Absolutely! Feel free to add some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Q9: Can I make this with store-bought breadcrumbs?
A9: Yes, store-bought breadcrumbs will work just as well. Just make sure to get the plain variety if you don’t want extra seasoning in the breadcrumbs.
Q10: How long can I store this in the fridge?
A10: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to store in an airtight container for the best results.
Conclusion
There you have it—your new favorite comfort food that’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious! Chicken Parm Pasta is everything you want in a meal: comforting, flavorful, and versatile. So whether you’re feeding the family or treating yourself, this dish will surely bring a little extra joy to your day. Enjoy, and happy cooking!
Print
Chicken Parm Pasta
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Chicken Parmesan Pasta combines tender chicken pieces with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces (225g) pasta (such as penne or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (24-ounce/680g) jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and dried Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top.
- Cover the skillet and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, consider breading and pan-frying the chicken pieces before adding them to the sauce.
- This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg