Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers the delicious taste of Chicken Parmesan without the extra steps of breading and frying. The chicken is seasoned and cooked directly in the sauce alongside rigatoni pasta, making it an effortless, crowd-pleasing meal. The blend of Italian seasoning, garlic, and cheeses creates a creamy, savory sauce that perfectly coats every bite.

Ingredients

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

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste
• 24 ounces pasta sauce
• 24 ounces chicken stock
• 16 ounces dried rigatoni pasta
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and garlic salt. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add minced onion and garlic paste. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in the pasta sauce and chicken stock, stirring to combine.
4. Add dried rigatoni pasta to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir gently to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top, cover, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 35 minutes

Variations

• Substitute rigatoni with penne, ziti, or your favorite pasta shape.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.
• Use a mix of marinara and Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Top with fresh basil or extra Parmesan before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce.
• This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the pasta may become mushy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Use thawed chicken for best results to ensure even cooking.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, cook up to the cheese melting step, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving.

What if I don’t have garlic paste?

You can substitute with 1-2 minced garlic cloves or garlic powder.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Omit the cheeses or substitute with dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to spice it up.

Can I use homemade pasta sauce?

Absolutely, homemade or store-bought sauce both work well.

How do I prevent pasta from sticking?

Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking and add enough liquid to cook it evenly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger pot and adjust cooking times accordingly.

What sides go well with Chicken Parmesan Pasta?

Serve with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs are a great alternative and stay juicy.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a quick, comforting meal that combines tender chicken, hearty pasta, and cheesy tomato sauce into one delicious dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, this recipe is simple to prepare and full of flavor. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices and enjoy a satisfying, cheesy dinner everyone will love.

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