Ah, Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet—what a delightful, cozy dish that brings back some of my fondest memories! I remember the first time I whipped up this recipe on a rainy afternoon. I had a whole bunch of chicken sitting in my fridge, and I felt like i needed something comforting and warm. As I tossed everything into my trusty skillet, the aroma filled my kitchen and I was instantly transported back to those bustling Italian kitchens I’ve seen in movies.
What makes this dish so special is the combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and al dente pasta all cooked together in one pan. It’s a time-saver and perfect for busy weeknights! Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pan meal that’s bursting with flavor? Let’s dive into what you need to make this scrumptious meal!
What’s in Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet?
Chicken Breast: The star of the show! I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish, as they stay juicy and absorb all the flavors of the sauce beautifully. Don’t forget to season them well!
Pasta: I like to use *penne* or *farfalle* for a touch of elegance, but really, any pasta you have on hand will work. It’s all about what makes your heart sing!
Marinara Sauce: A jar of marinara makes this dish super easy. I often go for a brand that has no added sugars and is packed with herbs. Homemade is great too, if you’re feeling fancy!
Parmesan Cheese: The classic cheese! Freshly grated always adds such a depth of flavor and creaminess. If you can’t find fresh, the pre-grated stuff from the store can work in a pinch.
Mozzarella Cheese: Because you can’t have Chicken Parmesan without ooey-gooey mozzarella! It makes everything melt together perfectly.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a savory punch to the dish. Seriously, garlic makes everything better!
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil is perfect for sautéing and adds healthy fats to the mix.
Is Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish can be quite nutritious when made with fresh ingredients.
Chicken Breast: It’s high in protein and low in fat, making it a great source of lean protein. Plus, it supports muscle growth and repair.
Pasta: Though it’s traditionally a carb-heavy dish, you can opt for whole wheat pasta or even zucchini noodles if you’re looking to cut back on carbs.
Marinara Sauce: A good marinara sauce is often packed with tomatoes, which are rich in antioxidants and vitamins—especially vitamin C and lycopene, which are great for heart health!
Of course, keep in mind portion sizes. You’ll want to enjoy this dish but also balance it out with wholesome veggies on the side.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz. pasta (penne or farfalle work great!)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
*Serves 4*
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet?
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about a minute until it becomes fragrant.
2. Toss in the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Stir and cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes while you cook the pasta.
4. In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the chicken and sauce.
6. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melty and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve immediately!
Serving Suggestions for Optimal Enjoyment!
You can enjoy this dish with a side salad for a refreshing crunch or some garlic bread for dipping! Leftovers taste even better the next day when the flavors have melded together. If you want to spice things up, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or sautéed veggies like bell peppers or spinach into the mix!
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! It’s not just a dinner; it’s a warm hug on a plate. I would absolutely love to hear how yours turns out, so please share your experiences and any tweaks you made! Happy cooking!
