Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is a one-pan, flavorful dish that combines the best parts of classic Chicken Parmesan with pasta, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken, marinara sauce, melted cheese, and pasta come together for a satisfying, cheesy, and comforting meal that everyone will love.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)olive oilgarlic cloves (minced)penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)marinara saucemozzarella cheese (shredded)Parmesan cheese (grated)dried basildried oreganored pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)fresh basil (optional, for garnish)salt and pepper

directions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using).

Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the marinara sauce, basil, and oregano to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.

While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Once the sauce is simmering, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the pasta. Stir to combine everything.

Top the pasta and chicken mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lower-carb version.

Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

For extra crunch, top the dish with breadcrumbs before adding the cheese and baking.

Substitute the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based alternative for a different protein option.

For a spicier version, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce.

storage/reheating

Store Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or marinara sauce if needed to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use leftover or rotisserie chicken to save time—just add it in with the marinara sauce to heat through.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

What kind of pasta works best?

Penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best, but you can use any pasta you prefer or have on hand.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella with provolone or even use a combination of Italian cheeses.

Can I make this dish in the oven?

Yes, after combining everything in the skillet, you can transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is a delicious, cheesy, and comforting dish that brings the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan to your dinner table in a fraction of the time. With tender chicken, flavorful marinara, and melted cheese, it’s a quick, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying and full of flavor.