Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Name: Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 10.5 oz (300 g) penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon (20 g) unsalted butter; 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 large garlic cloves, minced; ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional); 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 ½ cups (300 ml) tomato sauce (passata); 1 cup half and half (single cream); ½ cup (50 g) Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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There’s something deeply comforting about a plate of pasta, especially when it’s loaded with tender chicken, a creamy tomato sauce, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Chicken Parmesan Pasta takes everything you love about the classic Italian-American dish—crispy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and cheesy goodness—and transforms it into an easy, one-pan pasta dish.

This recipe is perfect for beginners because it simplifies the traditional Chicken Parmesan without sacrificing flavor. There’s no need to bread and fry the chicken or spend extra time baking; everything comes together in a single pan in about 30 minutes. Plus, it’s a lighter take on a classic, making it a great option for quick and healthy meals.

Why This Recipe is Special

Beginner-Friendly: Straightforward steps and simple ingredients make it easy for anyone to master.

Quick and Efficient: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthier Comfort Food: Uses a light creamy tomato sauce instead of heavy cream or excessive cheese.
Minimal Cleanup: Cooked in one pot for easy cleanup.

Ingredients and Their Role

Olive oil + butter: Adds depth of flavor and helps the chicken brown beautifully.
Chicken breast: Provides lean protein and a hearty bite. Can be substituted with boneless thighs or rotisserie chicken.
Onion & garlic: The flavor base that enhances the richness of the sauce.

Red chili flakes: Adds a subtle kick; optional for those who prefer a milder taste.
Italian seasoning: A convenient blend of herbs to infuse classic Italian flavors.
Tomato sauce (passata): Creates a smooth, tangy base for the pasta sauce. Crushed tomatoes can be used for a chunkier texture.

Half and half (single cream): Provides creaminess while keeping the dish light. You can substitute with full-fat milk or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami-rich finish. Freshly grated is best for optimal melting.
Pasta (penne): Holds the sauce well, but other short pasta like rotini or rigatoni work great too.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1-2 cups of pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency later if needed.

Step 2: In a large deep pan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and cook for 5-6 minutes until slightly golden and cooked through.

Step 3: Stir in the diced onion, garlic, and red chili flakes. Sauté for 2 more minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Italian seasoning and pour in the tomato sauce (passata). Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes over low heat.

Step 5: Reduce the heat and stir in the half and half. Allow the sauce to bubble gently for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring it becomes creamy without boiling too hard.

Step 6: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing everything together to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top, season to taste with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Enhance the Flavor: A handful of fresh basil or a squeeze of lemon at the end brightens up the dish.

Make it a One-Pan Meal: Skip boiling the pasta separately—just add uncooked pasta with extra water or broth to the sauce and simmer until tender.
Veggie Boost: Add baby spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrients and color.
Crispy Texture: For a classic Chicken Parmesan feel, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Side Pairings: Serve with a simple green salad and a side of garlic bread.
Wine Pairing: A light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish.
Leftover Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to keep the sauce creamy.

This Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the perfect way to enjoy a comforting, restaurant-style meal without complicated steps. If you try this recipe, let us know how it turned out in the comments! Did you add any personal twists? We’d love to hear your tips and variations.

Looking for more quick and healthy meals? Stay tuned for more beginner-friendly recipes to build your confidence in the kitchen!

FAQ About Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of raw chicken breast?

Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works well. Simply shred or cube it and add it to the sauce when stirring in the pasta to warm it through.

What’s the best pasta to use for this recipe?

Penne is ideal because it holds the sauce well, but you can use rotini, rigatoni, or any short pasta shape you have on hand.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the half and half with unsweetened coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

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