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Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Chicken Parmesan Pasta
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This Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe is a quick and delicious weeknight meal that combines tender chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheeses tossed with your favorite pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, it offers comforting Italian-inspired flavors that are family-friendly and easy to prepare, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2 boneless chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, plus extra for sauce

Sauce and Cooking Base

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups marinara sauce

Pasta and Cheese

  • 4 cups cooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
  • Red pepper flakes or hot sauce (for spice, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Cook the Chicken: Slice the boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces or strips. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Create the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low in the same skillet and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and sprinkle with additional Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld perfectly.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta directly to the sauce, stirring well to coat thoroughly. Gently fold in the cooked chicken pieces, ensuring even distribution throughout the dish.
  4. Add Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the pasta and chicken mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for a few minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey, luscious topping.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Finish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, adding a burst of fresh herbal flavor. Serve immediately while warm and melty for the best taste experience.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and smoother texture.
  • Cook pasta just al dente to ensure it absorbs sauce and maintains firmness.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning chicken; cook in batches if necessary.
  • Season every layer, including chicken, pasta water, and sauce, for balanced flavor.
  • Let the dish rest for a minute after melting cheese to set and ease serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Parmesan, Pasta, Italian, Quick Dinner, Comfort Food, Family Meal

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