Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm, cheesy, and flavor-packed pasta dish am talking about Parmesan chicken pasta . Imagine a dish where breaded chicken meets gooey mozzarella and tangy marinara, all swirled together with tender pasta—delicious, right? Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delightful twist on classic Chicken Parmesan, offering the hearty flavors you love in a family-friendly pasta bake that’s easy to make and even easier to love. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, a cozy weekend dinner, or even meal prep. Get ready to enjoy an Italian-inspired dish that feels like a hug in a bowl!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Creating this Chicken Parmesan Pasta is about more than just cooking a meal; it’s about making memories. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Easy Weeknight Dinner: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, you can have this dish ready in under an hour.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe combines the universally loved flavors of Chicken Parmesan with pasta, making it ideal for all ages.
- One-Dish Comfort: A casserole-style bake means fewer dishes, less cleanup, and all the flavors melding into a single, delicious dish.
Ingredients for Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe
This recipe brings together simple ingredients for a truly flavorful meal. Gather the following:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 large |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| All-purpose flour | ½ cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Pasta (penne or rigatoni) | 12 oz |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 ½ cups |
| Fresh basil (optional garnish) | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Recipe for Cheesy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
1. Bread and Cook the Chicken
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Coat chicken in flour.
- Dip in beaten eggs.
- Dredge in a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet, and cook the chicken until golden brown and crispy on both sides (about 5-6 minutes per side).
2. Prepare the Pasta
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Assemble the Casserole
- Cut Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- In a baking dish, mix the pasta with marinara sauce.
- Add the chicken pieces on top.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake
- Bake in Oven: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Pasta Selection: Penne and rigatoni hold sauce well, making them perfect choices.
- Cheese Variations: Try adding shredded provolone or a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano for added depth of flavor.
- Avoid Soggy Chicken: Let breaded chicken rest for a few minutes on a paper towel after frying to keep it crispy.
Substitutions & Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Healthier Choice: Opt for whole-wheat pasta, use less cheese, or air-fry the chicken instead of pan-frying.
- Extra Veggies: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the pasta for added nutrition and flavor.
Nutrition Information for Parmesan Chicken Pasta
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 34 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Fats | 22 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Calcium | 25% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 15% of Daily Value |
FAQs
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken works well. Simply cut it into bite-sized pieces, layer it with the pasta and sauce, and bake as directed.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, uncover and bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
The best way is to reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warm. This keeps the chicken from becoming soggy.
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