Ah, chicken parmesan pasta – it’s like a warm hug on a plate! This dish is the ultimate comfort food, marrying crispy, golden chicken with tender pasta, all enveloped in a rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey, melty cheese. Seriously, what’s not to love? The flavors blend together beautifully, creating a delightful experience that’ll have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this chicken parmesan pasta will surely steal the show and warm your heart.
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious chicken parmesan pasta! I promise, it’s all pretty straightforward and likely stuff you’ve got stashed in your pantry or fridge already.
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, for easy cooking)
- 8 oz pasta (your choice—spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or your favorite jarred version)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (because who doesn’t love gooey cheese?)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for that extra cheesy goodness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (for flavor, of course)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (a must-have for an Italian dish)
- Salt and pepper to taste (seasoning is key!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking the chicken to perfection)
Feel free to get creative! You can add veggies like spinach or mushrooms to the mix if you want to sneak in some greens. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this amazing chicken parmesan pasta! Don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds, and I’ll walk you through every part of the process. Trust me, the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen will make it all worth it!
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is super important because it ensures that your cheese gets all bubbly and golden when we bake it later. While that’s warming up, grab a baking dish and set it aside for later use. It’s all about being organized!
Cook the Pasta
Next, let’s get that pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and toss in your 8 oz of pasta. I usually cook it just a minute less than the package directions say, maybe around 7-8 minutes, because it’ll finish cooking in the oven. You want it al dente, so it holds up nicely when we mix it with the sauce. Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside for now.
Season and Cook the Chicken
While your pasta is cooking, it’s time to season the chicken. Take those 2 chicken breasts and sprinkle them with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be generous with the seasoning; this is where the flavor starts! Heat up 2 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is nice and hot, carefully place the chicken in the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and no longer pink in the middle. You can check for doneness by slicing into the thickest part – it should be juicy and fully cooked. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it up!
Assemble the Dish
Now comes the fun part! In your baking dish, combine the drained pasta with the 2 cups of marinara sauce, mixing it together until everything is evenly coated. Then, place the sliced chicken on top of the pasta. Oh, and don’t forget to sprinkle that delicious mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the top. The more cheese, the better!
Bake and Serve
Pop the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is all melty and bubbly, and your kitchen smells amazing. Once it’s out, let it cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Grab a big spoon, serve it up, and get ready for a delightful feast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-dish wonder—easy cleanup after a hearty meal!
- Ready in just 45 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- So comforting and satisfying, it’s like a big hug in a bowl.
- Loaded with flavor from the garlic, Italian seasoning, and melty cheeses.
- Customizable! Add your favorite veggies or switch up the pasta type.
- Kid-approved—everyone loves cheesy chicken and pasta!
- Great for meal prep; leftovers taste even better the next day!
Tips for Success
Want to make sure your chicken parmesan pasta turns out absolutely perfect? I’ve got you covered with some tried-and-true tips! Trust me, these little tricks can take your dish from good to amazing!
- Don’t skip the seasoning: Season your chicken generously! It’s the key to bringing out that delicious flavor. You can even marinate it for a bit to really enhance the taste.
- Use quality marinara: The sauce is crucial, so choose a marinara that you love! If you have time, homemade is fantastic, but a good jarred version can work wonders too.
- Perfect pasta: Remember to cook your pasta al dente! This ensures it doesn’t get mushy when baked. And don’t forget to save a bit of pasta water; you can add a splash to the sauce if it feels too thick.
- Experiment with cheeses: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, feel free to mix in some provolone or fontina for extra flavor! Cheese is your friend here.
- Add veggies: Sneak in some healthy greens like spinach or cherry tomatoes. They’ll add color, nutrition, and flavor—plus, it’s a great way to use up what you have on hand!
- Let it rest: After baking, give your dish a few minutes to cool before serving. This helps everything settle together, making it easier to spoon out those perfect portions.
- Make it ahead: This dish is fantastic for meal prep! You can assemble it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a chicken parmesan pasta that’s not only delicious but also totally satisfying. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s chat about the nutritional breakdown of this delightful chicken parmesan pasta! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Here’s what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
This dish packs a hearty punch, making it a fulfilling meal for any occasion. Just remember, balance is key, so feel free to enjoy it with a side salad or some steamed veggies for a well-rounded dinner! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this delicious chicken parmesan pasta? Don’t worry, I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries that might pop up as you whip up this comfort dish:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add even more flavor and juiciness to your dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
You can use any pasta you love! I recommend spaghetti or penne for great texture, but feel free to experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you’re looking for healthier options.
Can I make this chicken parmesan pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake it. It’s a perfect time-saver for busy weeknights!
What can I serve with chicken parmesan pasta?
Pair this dish with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or some steamed vegetables to round out your meal. The bright flavors of a salad really complement the richness of the pasta!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It tastes just as good, trust me!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this scrumptious chicken parmesan pasta ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to make your meal even more delightful! Trust me, a few sides can elevate your dinner game to a whole new level.
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with buttery, garlicky bread! It’s perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce left on your plate.
- Side Salad: A fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brings a nice crunch and balances the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed Vegetables: Go for some colorful steamed veggies like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. They add nutrition and a lovely pop of color to your plate.
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle some asparagus with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and roast until tender. It’s a simple yet elegant side that pairs beautifully!
- Antipasto Platter: If you’re feeling fancy, whip up an antipasto platter with olives, salami, cheese, and marinated veggies. It’s a fun way to start the meal!
These sides will not only complement your chicken parmesan pasta but also create a well-rounded and satisfying dinner experience. Enjoy each bite and the company you share it with!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Tomato Basil Soup or Creamy Cheesecake!
Imprimer
Chicken Parmesan Pasta: 7 Comforting Flavors to Savor
- Temps Total: 45 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
A delicious dish combining chicken, pasta, and marinara sauce, topped with melted cheese.
Ingrédients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
- In a baking dish, combine cooked pasta and marinara sauce.
- Slice chicken and place on top of pasta.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 30 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sucre: 8g
- De Sodium: 900mg
- La graisse: 22g
- Graisses Saturées: 10g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 8g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 60g
- La fibre: 3g
- La protéine: 30g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 80mg
Mots-clés: chicken parmesan pasta
