Delicious Chicken Parm Pasta with chicken, sauce, and cheese

Chicken Parm Pasta

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Chicken Parm Pasta is a delightful fusion of two comforting favorites: chicken parmesan and pasta. This dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of crispy chicken, cheesy pasta, and flavorful marinara sauce comes together beautifully, ensuring that everyone at the table will be satisfied. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with a twist.

how to make Chicken Parm Pasta

Ingredients :

  • 12 oz. store-bought cooked frozen breaded chicken cutlets
  • 1 lb. cavatappi or other short pasta
  • 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 4 cups store-bought or homemade marinara sauce
  • 2 oz. Parmesan, finely grated
  • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Torn fresh basil, for serving

Directions :

  1. Cook frozen chicken according to package instructions. Let cool, then cut crosswise into strips.
  2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  3. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta until al dente, then drain.
  4. In a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil and cook onion until translucent.
  5. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  6. Add marinara and salt, bringing to a simmer.
  7. Stir in pasta, coating it in the sauce, and add Parmesan until melted.
  8. Top with more Parmesan and mozzarella, and arrange chicken on top.
  9. Bake until cheese is melted and chicken is warmed through, about 10-12 minutes.
  10. Season with pepper, and top with basil and more Parmesan before serving.

how to serve Chicken Parm Pasta

Serve Chicken Parm Pasta hot from the oven. You can dish it out in bowls or plates, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a nice touch. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread to make a complete meal that everyone will love.

how to store Chicken Parm Pasta

To store leftovers, let the Chicken Parm Pasta cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to 2 months.

tips to make Chicken Parm Pasta

  • Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
  • If you like more cheese, feel free to add extra mozzarella on top.
  • For a bit of crunch, you can bake the dish a little longer or broil it for a minute at the end.
  • Customize the dish by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.

variation (if any)

You can easily modify this recipe by using grilled chicken instead of breaded cutlets for a lighter option. Additionally, you can swap cavatappi for other pasta shapes such as penne or fusilli, depending on your preference.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade chicken cutlets instead of store-bought?
Yes, you can use homemade breaded chicken cutlets. Just ensure they are cooked through before adding them to the pasta.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and sauce in advance and assemble the dish. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.

3. Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?
No, this recipe includes chicken. However, you can create a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using vegetables or plant-based protein instead.