Chicken Parmesan Pasta | One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake

If you love classic Chicken Parmesan but want a quicker, more convenient way to enjoy it, this Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the perfect solution! It combines tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese with perfectly cooked pasta for an easy, one-pot meal. 

Why Your Family Will Adore This Chicken Pasta

• Easy One-Pot Meal. Everything cooks in one pot, meaning fewer dishes!
• Classic Italian Flavor. The same rich and cheesy flavors as Chicken Parmesan in pasta form.
• Family-Friendly. Even picky eaters will love this comforting dish.
• Customizable. Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Perfect for Leftovers. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day!

Whether you’re making dinner for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed winner!

What Does Chicken Parmesan Pasta Taste Like?

This dish delivers bold, savory flavors with a hint of sweetness from the marinara sauce. The chicken adds a satisfying texture, while the combination of heavy cream, Parmesan and mozzarella cheese gives it a creamy, cheesy finish. Every bite is packed with Italian-inspired goodness, making it a crowd-pleasing meal that will quickly become a staple in your home.

Ingredients To Grab

Make sure you have these ingredients in your kitchen before you get started. Chances are that you already have most of them on hand already!

• Penne Pasta– A sturdy pasta that holds onto the sauce well and provides a satisfying texture.
• Water– Used to boil the pasta along with the marinara sauce until al dente.
• Chicken Breasts– The main protein that is cut into cubes, seasoned and precooked before being mixed into the pasta.
• Marinara Sauce– A rich, tomato-based sauce that coats the pasta and gives the dish its signature Italian-inspired flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese– Adds a melty, gooey texture that enhances the creaminess of the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese– Provides a bold, salty, and nutty flavor that complements the marinara sauce.
• Heavy Cream– Adds richness and a creamy texture to the sauce, making it extra indulgent.
• Panko Breadcrumbs– Used to create a crispy topping for the pasta, adding a crunchy contrast to the dish.
• Spices– A blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Olive Oil– To saute the chicken to a delicious golden brown and prevent it from sticking to the pan.

How To Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta

This one pot wonder is the perfect weeknight dish that will feed a crowd! Read over the steps before you get started for an effortless experience in the kitchen:

Sear the Chicken. Heat the olive oil in a skillet. Place the diced chicken breasts into the pan. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until it is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165F.

Cook the Pasta. Place the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water, and spices in the pan with the cooked chicken. Place a lid on the pan and reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow to boil for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and stir in the heavy cream.

Add the Topping. Add the shredded mozzarella, panko breadcrumbs, and shredded Parmesan cheese to the top of the chicken parmesan pasta.

Bake to Perfection. Place the assembled dish into an oven preheated to 375F. Allow it to bake for 10-15 minutes or until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy! Remove the baked cheesy chicken pasta from the oven, serve with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the best Chicken Parmesan Pasta every time:

• Use Fresh Ingredients. High-quality marinara, Parmesan, and freshly shredded mozzarella make a big difference.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta. Slightly undercook it since it will continue cooking in the sauce.
• Melt the Cheese Just Right. Cover the pan for a few minutes to get that perfect gooey consistency.
• Meal Prep Friendly. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Variations

Check out these delicious variations next time you whip up this recipe to keep things exciting:

• Vegetarian Version– Swap chicken for breaded eggplant or sautéed mushrooms.
• Spicy Kick– Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Extra Cheesy– Mix in ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.
• Grilled Chicken Option– Skip the breading and use grilled chicken for a lighter dish.
• Add Veggies– Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients.

What To Serve With Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish, so pairing it with the right side dishes can balance the meal. Here are some of the best sides to serve with it:

• Garlic Bread– Buttery, crispy, and perfect for soaking up extra marinara sauce.
• Caesar Salad– A classic choice with crisp romaine, parmesan, croutons, and creamy dressing.
• Roasted Broccoli– Lightly charred and seasoned for a healthy, flavorful side.

How Long Does It Last?

If you want to make this dish ahead of time to prepare for your next busy weeknight, it may be even better warmed up than it is fresh!

When it is stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it can last for up to 3-4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, pop it back in the oven at 350F for 20-25 minutes or until it is warmed through.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes, you can freeze Chicken Parmesan Pasta, but for the best texture and flavor, there are a few key steps to follow.

First, allow the dish to cool completely before freezing to prevent excess moisture and sogginess. Store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container after dividing it into individual portions. Chicken Parmesan Pasta can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or warm it on the stovetop with a splash of extra sauce to keep it from drying out.

More Perfect Pasta Recipes

• Instant Pot Tortellini Soup
• Tuscan Chicken Pasta
• Million Dollar Spaghetti
• Instant Pot Spaghetti
• Instant Pot Ground Beef Stroganoff

If you love this Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe as much as our family does, share it on social media so your friends can try it too! Don’t forget to save it so you can add it to your dinner recipe rotation.