This easy, cheesy dish brings all the flavors of classic chicken parmesan into a one-pot wonder! Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s comforting, flavorful, and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 medium yellow onion, minced
3 cloves garlic, minced
16 oz dried short-cut pasta (e.g., rigatoni, penne)
24 oz jar marinara sauce (e.g., Newman’s Own)
Water (to fill the empty marinara sauce jar)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional Italian seasoning, optional
Fresh parsley and/or basil, minced (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced chicken, season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add the minced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the marinara sauce to the pot, then fill the empty sauce jar with water and pour it into the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir in the pasta, ensuring it’s submerged in the sauce.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
Step 5: Return the Chicken
Once the pasta is cooked, add the cooked chicken back to the pot. Stir everything together and let it heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Stir in the grated Parmesan and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top, cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh parsley or basil and serve warm.
Enjoy this rich, cheesy, and comforting meal with almost no cleanup! It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite. 🧀🍗🍝
