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Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet
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This easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is a hearty and comforting one-pan meal combining tender chicken, melted cheeses, savory tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and offers a cheesy, Italian-inspired flavor the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Cooking Base

  • 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves minced garlic

Sauce and Seasoning

  • 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme blend)
  • 1 cup chicken broth

Pasta

  • 8 oz uncooked short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini)

Cheeses

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook until golden on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  2. Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds. Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine all ingredients into a rich, savory sauce.
  3. Cook the Pasta in the Sauce: Add uncooked pasta directly into the sauce mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer and cover. Stir occasionally and cook until pasta is al dente, about 12-15 minutes. Add a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
  4. Combine Chicken and Cheese: Once pasta is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet and stir into the pasta and sauce. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. Cover skillet and let cook on very low heat or off-heat until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Finish with chopped fresh basil if desired, and serve immediately for a warm, cheesy, comforting meal.

Notes

  • Use bite-sized chicken pieces for even cooking.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning chicken; brown in batches if necessary.
  • Keep the skillet covered while pasta cooks to trap steam.
  • Add cheese at the end to keep it gooey and melty.
  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley brighten the dish and add freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Parmesan, One-Pan Meal, Pasta Skillet, Quick Dinner, Italian, Comfort Food, Weeknight Dinner, Family Friendly, Gluten-Free Option

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/chicken-parmesan-pasta-skillet/