Easy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake

A Delicious and Hassle-Free Comfort Meal

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake is perfect. Combining the flavors of classic chicken Parmesan with a hearty pasta dish, this recipe delivers a cheesy, savory meal with minimal cleanup. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot convenience – Fewer dishes mean less cleanup.
• Family-friendly – A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
• Packed with flavor – Juicy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 12 ounces penne pasta (or any short pasta)
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
• 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sauté Chicken – In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Seasonings and Garlic – Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add Pasta and Liquids – Pour in the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer – Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
6. Stir in Parmesan – Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Top with Mozzarella – Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
8. Bake – Transfer the pot to the oven and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Optional Breadcrumb Topping – If using breadcrumbs, toast them in a small pan with a drizzle of olive oil for 2-3 minutes until golden. Sprinkle over the baked pasta before serving.
10. Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and serve hot.

Variations and Substitutions

• Use different protein – Try ground chicken, turkey, or even sausage.
• Make it vegetarian – Substitute chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
• Try a different cheese – Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a unique twist.
• Spice it up – Increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! If using cooked chicken, add it in step 5 instead of step 2 to prevent overcooking.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini holds up well in this dish.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything except baking, then refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

How do I prevent dry pasta?

Ensure the liquid covers the pasta before simmering, and stir occasionally to avoid sticking.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe pot?

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish before adding mozzarella, then bake as directed.

Can I use homemade marinara?

Absolutely! A homemade sauce will add even more fresh flavor.

How do I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese, and reduce the amount of cheese slightly.

Is it necessary to bake it?

No, but baking gives it that crispy, cheesy top layer that makes it extra delicious.

What side dishes go well with this?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great pairings.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1.5-2 hours, then add the cheese and let it melt before serving.

Conclusion

This Easy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake is the perfect meal for busy families who crave a comforting, delicious dinner with minimal effort. With just one pot and a few simple steps, you can enjoy a rich, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Give it a try tonight and enjoy an effortless, crowd-pleasing meal

Print