Easy One-Pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet: Your Ultimate Cheesy Weeknight Meal

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly easy and mouthwatering one-pan Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet recipe. Featuring succulent, tender chicken, simmered in a rich, homemade tomato sauce, and generously topped with an abundance of melted, gooey cheese, this dish is destined to become a staple in your family’s dinner rotation. Its simplicity and robust flavors make it the perfect solution for busy weeknights, delivering gourmet taste with minimal effort.

About This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

This cheesy skillet meal is a true weeknight wonder, brimming with fork-tender pieces of chicken and a rich, robust homemade tomato sauce infused with a medley of fresh herbs. The first time I savored a bite of this delightful pasta, the world seemed to slow down, and a profound sense of ease washed over me. There’s something undeniably centering about Italian cuisine – perhaps it’s the lingering influence of my time living in Rome, or maybe it’s simply the profound comfort that carbs and melted cheese bring to my soul. Whatever the reason, this dish feels like coming home, a culinary embrace that makes me wonder if there isn’t a whisper of Italian heritage in my family tree after all!

Skillet dinners have recently become my go-to for effortless yet impressive meals. The allure lies in their sheer simplicity: the ability to prepare and finish an entire dinner in one single pan, transitioning seamlessly from stovetop to oven, is an absolute game-changer for reducing cleanup. Beyond the practical benefits, cooking everything together in one pan allows the flavors to meld and deepen in a way that’s simply unmatched by preparing components separately. Each ingredient contributes its essence, building rich, complex layers of flavor that elevate the entire dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

The secret to unlocking the full potential of this dish begins with the chicken. It’s crucial to let the chicken develop a beautiful golden-brown crust before introducing any other ingredients. Those caramelized, browned bits that naturally adhere to the bottom of the pan are not mere residue; they are concentrated pockets of pure, savory flavor – a culinary treasure you absolutely don’t want to miss. Later, when you add the diced tomatoes and aromatic herbs, their moisture helps to deglaze the pan, releasing those delectable caramelized pieces and incorporating them directly into the sauce. This process is key to achieving that deeply satisfying, complex taste.

For the best results, I highly recommend using a cast iron or a high-quality stainless steel skillet. These materials are superior for achieving that perfect sear and can safely withstand the high temperatures of going directly from the stovetop into the oven. While the recipe itself is wonderfully straightforward, resist the urge to rush the process. Allow the sauce ample time to simmer and reduce, enabling the fresh herbs to fully infuse their aromatic flavors into every spoonful. The final bake in the oven serves a dual purpose: it not only melts the cheese into a luscious, bubbly topping but also allows the pasta to fully absorb the savory nuances of the rich tomato sauce, ensuring every bite is moist, tender, and bursting with flavor. This patient approach guarantees a dish that is truly unforgettable. Note: This is an updated version of the post originally published on March 8, 2016. Both the recipe and accompanying content have been carefully revised and enhanced.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to a truly delicious meal. Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet:

Cooking Oil. A good quality, neutral oil is essential for searing the chicken and sautéing the aromatics. Extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil are excellent choices, offering a subtle flavor that complements the dish without overpowering it.

Chicken. For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breast or boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully. Chicken breast offers a leaner option, while thighs provide a richer flavor and more tender texture. Whichever you choose, cut the meat into uniform 1 to 2-inch chunks to ensure even cooking and easy incorporation into the pasta.

Spices. A simple yet effective blend of seasonings will elevate the chicken’s flavor. You’ll need a combination of savory garlic powder, essential salt, freshly cracked black pepper for a touch of heat, and aromatic onion powder. These spices work together to create a foundational flavor profile for your chicken.

Pasta. The right pasta shape is key for a skillet dish. Short pastas like penne, rotini, or farfalle are ideal as they easily mix with the sauce and chicken, and are perfect for scooping. Ensure you cook it al dente – firm to the bite – as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.

Garlic. Fresh garlic provides an indispensable aromatic depth. Our favorite shortcut for busy nights is a jar of minced garlic, always at the ready in the fridge. Alternatively, you can mince whole garlic cloves by hand or quickly process them in a food processor for that vibrant, fresh flavor.

Onion. Diced onion forms the aromatic base of our sauce. Yellow onion is typically preferred for its balanced sweetness and pungency, but white onion can also be used if that’s what you have on hand, offering a slightly sharper flavor.

Diced Tomatoes. One 14.5-oz can of quality diced tomatoes provides chunks of ripe tomato and a bright, slightly acidic note to the sauce. These are crucial for building the fresh tomato flavor profile.

Tomato Puree. For a rich, smooth, and deeply tomato-flavored sauce, use good quality tomato puree. San Marzano tomato puree is highly recommended for its superior flavor and less acidic profile. If time is of the essence, you can substitute this with your favorite marinara sauce; just be sure to adjust for sweetness if your marinara is already pre-sweetened.

Fresh Herbs. The essence of Italian cooking comes alive with fresh herbs. Fresh thyme, fresh oregano, and fresh basil are used to build vibrant layers of flavor in the tomato sauce. If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried herbs can be used, but remember to use only half the amount specified, as their flavor is more concentrated.

Granulated Sugar. A small amount of granulated sugar is optional but highly recommended to balance out the natural acidity of the tomatoes, creating a well-rounded and harmonious sauce. If you opt for pre-made marinara sauce instead of tomato puree, you might want to omit the sugar as marinara often already contains added sweeteners.

Cheese. No Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is complete without a generous helping of cheese! You’ll need a delicious combination of shredded mozzarella cheese for its incredible melt and stretch, and grated parmesan cheese for its sharp, salty, and nutty depth of flavor. These two cheeses create the perfect cheesy crust and creamy texture throughout the dish.

Essential Equipment for This Recipe

Having the right tools on hand can make all the difference in the kitchen, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience. For this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet, a few key pieces of equipment are indispensable:

To begin your preparation, a sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are essential. These tools will allow you to efficiently and safely dice your chicken, onions, and mince your garlic, making ingredient prep a breeze.

The star of this one-pan recipe is, of course, the large oven-safe skillet. This is where all the magic happens – from searing the chicken to simmering the sauce and finally baking the cheesy pasta. We particularly love using a Lodge cast iron skillet for its excellent heat retention and ability to create a fantastic sear, which develops incredible flavor. A high-quality stainless steel skillet would also work wonderfully. Avoid non-stick if possible, as it doesn’t allow for the necessary browning that builds the depth of flavor in this dish.

Finally, a reliable wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula will be invaluable for stirring, scraping up those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan, and mixing all the delicious components together. These simple tools ensure that every step of the recipe is handled with ease, leading to a perfectly executed and delightful meal.

Step-by-Step: How to Make a Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

Creating this delicious Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is simpler than you might think, especially with a clear breakdown of each step. Follow these instructions to bring this comforting Italian-American classic to your dinner table:

Prepare the Chicken & Pasta

First, get your pasta cooking. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Add your chosen short pasta (like penne or rigatoni) and cook it until it’s perfectly al dente, meaning it’s still firm to the bite. This is crucial because the pasta will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water if you wish to adjust sauce consistency later.

While the pasta cooks, prepare your chicken. In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken (breast or thighs work well) with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Toss the chicken thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.

Next, heat 2 teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil in your large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add the seasoned chicken chunks to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken for about 7 minutes in total, flipping the pieces halfway through, until they are beautifully browned on all sides and cooked through. Achieving a nice sear is important for developing deep flavor. Once cooked, remove the browned chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate; leave any flavorful browned bits in the pan as these will become part of your delicious sauce.

Craft the Flavorful Sauce

Preheat your oven to 375˚F (190˚C). This ensures it’s ready for the final baking step once your sauce is prepared.

Using the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add 1 tablespoon of fresh extra virgin olive oil. Keep the heat at medium-high. Add the diced yellow onion to the hot skillet and sauté for approximately 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent. This step releases the onion’s natural sweetness and aromatic qualities.

Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for a brief 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant and just begins to brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter very quickly.

Pour in the tomato puree (ideally San Marzano for best flavor) and the can of diced tomatoes. Stir well. Add the fresh herbs: chopped thyme, oregano, and basil. If you’re using granulated sugar to balance acidity (and not using pre-made marinara), add it now. Bring the sauce to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time is crucial; it allows the flavors to meld and deepen, and the herbs to infuse their aromatic essence throughout the sauce. While it simmers, use your wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – these are packed with flavor and will enrich your sauce. Finally, taste the sauce and season it generously with salt and pepper as needed, adjusting to your preference.

Bake to Cheesy Perfection

Once your sauce has simmered and is seasoned to perfection, it’s time to bring all the components together. Add the drained, al dente pasta and the cooked chicken pieces back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir everything gently to ensure the chicken and pasta are thoroughly coated in the rich tomato sauce.

Now for the cheese! Stir in ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese and all of the grated parmesan cheese directly into the pasta mixture. This will create a creamy, cheesy base throughout the dish. Then, generously sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the entire surface of the skillet. This top layer will melt into a glorious, golden-brown crust.

Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is beautifully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning. Once out of the oven, let the skillet rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil and extra grated parmesan cheese, if desired, for a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color. Serve hot and enjoy your incredibly satisfying one-pan meal!

Expert Tips and Tricks for Success

Achieving a truly exceptional Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet goes beyond just following the steps. Here are some expert tips and tricks to elevate your dish:

• Choose the Right Pan: For the best sear on your chicken and superior flavor development, always opt for a **stainless steel or cast iron pan**. These materials allow for proper browning and the creation of “fond” (those delicious browned bits) at the bottom of the pan, which are essential for a rich sauce. Non-stick pans, while convenient for some tasks, won’t deliver the same depth of flavor here.
• Boost Pasta Flavor with Stock: Instead of simply boiling your pasta in salted water, consider cooking it in **chicken stock or vegetable broth**. This simple swap will infuse the pasta with an additional layer of savory flavor, making every bite more delicious and harmonious with the rest of the dish.
• Don’t Skip the Deglazing: Those browned bits clinging to the bottom of the pan after cooking the chicken are pure gold! When you add the diced tomatoes and tomato puree, make sure to **aggressively scrape up the browned bits** with your wooden spoon. This process, known as deglazing, incorporates all that concentrated flavor into your sauce, making it incredibly rich and complex.
• Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: While dried herbs can be used, **fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, basil)** offer a brighter, more vibrant flavor. If using fresh, add them towards the end of the sauce’s simmering process to preserve their delicate aromas. If using dried, remember to use half the amount as their flavor is more concentrated.
• Balance the Acidity: Tomatoes can sometimes be quite acidic. The optional addition of **a teaspoon of granulated sugar** helps to balance this acidity, rounding out the flavors of the sauce. Always taste your sauce and adjust seasonings and sweetness to your preference.
• Quality Cheese Matters: Using good quality, freshly shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese will make a noticeable difference in the final taste and texture. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting as smoothly.
• Al Dente is Key: Ensure your pasta is cooked **al dente** (firm to the bite) before adding it to the skillet. It will continue to cook slightly in the hot sauce and during the oven bake, so undercooking it slightly prevents it from becoming mushy.

Craving more delicious pasta? Explore these delightful recipes: Pasta Napolitana | Penne Pomodoro | Lemon Ricotta Pasta | Creamy Sausage Kale Rigatoni Pasta | Gnocchi Carbonara

Choosing the Best Pasta for Chicken Parmesan

When it comes to a hearty, saucy dish like Chicken Parmesan Pasta, the type of pasta you choose can significantly impact the overall experience. The best choices are typically **short pasta shapes** that have nooks, ridges, or tubes to effectively capture and hold onto the rich tomato sauce and melty cheese. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

While we frequently use **penne pasta** for its classic shape and ability to soak up the sauce, you have several excellent alternatives that work just as well:

• Ziti: Similar to penne but usually smooth, ziti is a tubular pasta that is fantastic for baked dishes, creating pockets of cheesy sauce.
• Rigatoni: With its larger, ridged tubes, rigatoni is perfect for holding thick sauces and adds a satisfying chewiness.
• Farfalle (Bow-tie pasta): The playful shape of farfalle not only looks great but its “wings” are excellent for trapping sauce.
• Cavatappi: These corkscrew-shaped pasta pieces are incredibly fun to eat and their spiral structure is brilliant for clinging to chunky sauces and cheese.
• Rotini: Another spiral option, rotini offers a similar sauce-holding capability and a pleasant texture.

Avoid very long, thin pastas like spaghetti or linguine for this skillet preparation, as they can become difficult to manage and coat evenly in a one-pan baked dish. Stick to shorter, robust shapes that stand up well to baking and are easy to scoop and enjoy!

Can You Prepare This Dish in Advance?

Absolutely! This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is fantastic for meal prepping, as certain components can be prepared ahead of time, saving you precious minutes on a busy weeknight. The most significant element you can prepare in advance is the **homemade tomato sauce**.

To do so, simply skip the chicken cooking step and begin directly with sautéing the onion and garlic for the sauce. Once your rich tomato sauce has finished simmering and all the flavors have melded beautifully, allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer the cooled sauce into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the sauce will remain fresh and flavorful for approximately 3 to 4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, the process is streamlined:

1. Start by cooking the chicken fresh in your oven-safe skillet as instructed in the recipe.
2. Once the chicken is browned and cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Add your pre-made sauce to the skillet, gently warming it over medium-low heat, making sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits left from the chicken.
4. Stir in your freshly cooked pasta and the cooked chicken, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.
5. Proceed with the recipe as listed: incorporate the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, top with the remaining mozzarella, and bake until bubbly and golden.

While the pasta is best cooked fresh to avoid it becoming too soft, preparing the sauce in advance makes assembly quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal with minimal fuss even on the busiest of days.

Making a Vegetarian Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

Yes, absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can easily adapt it to create a delicious vegetarian version by omitting the chicken. The rich tomato sauce and cheesy pasta are satisfying enough on their own, making for a robust meatless meal. The core flavors of tomato, garlic, herbs, and cheese remain the stars, ensuring a deeply comforting dish.

To add more substance and depth to your vegetarian skillet, consider incorporating a variety of flavorful vegetables. Here are some fantastic options:

• Zucchini: Sliced or diced zucchini adds a tender texture and mild flavor that pairs well with tomato sauce.
• Broccoli: Small broccoli florets offer a slight crunch and a boost of green goodness.
• Eggplant: Diced eggplant, especially when sautéed until tender, adds a creamy texture and savory, earthy notes.
• Mushrooms: Sliced cremini or button mushrooms bring a wonderful umami depth to the dish.
• Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers, sliced or diced, add sweetness and vibrant color.
• Spinach or Kale: Stir in a generous handful of fresh spinach or chopped kale at the very end, just before baking or when you mix in the cheese, allowing them to wilt into the sauce.

To prepare your chosen vegetables, simply season them with the same blend of garlic powder, salt, pepper, and onion powder as you would the chicken. Sauté them in the skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil until they are tender-crisp and lightly browned, then remove them from the pan. Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet at the same point you would add the cooked chicken (after the sauce has simmered and before mixing in the pasta and cheese). Proceed with the rest of the recipe as instructed, and you’ll have a wonderfully flavorful and hearty vegetarian Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet!

In need of fresh dinner inspiration? Don’t miss out on my diverse dinner recipes page!

Serving Suggestions for Your One-Pot Meal

One of the many beauties of this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is that it’s a complete, satisfying meal all on its own. It’s packed with protein, carbs, and vegetables (from the sauce!), so you don’t *need* to pair it with anything else if you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner. However, if you wish to round out the meal or add a touch of freshness, there are plenty of excellent options.

For some added greens and a burst of freshness, consider these simple side dishes:

• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Classic choices like steamed broccoli, tender roasted asparagus, or sautéed green beans are fantastic options that cook quickly and provide a healthy contrast to the rich pasta.
• Fresh Salad: A simple, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can cut through the richness of the pasta and offer a refreshing element.
• Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: Who can resist dipping a piece of warm, crusty bread into delicious pasta sauce? Garlic bread is a perfect accompaniment for soaking up every last drop.
• Greens Stirred In: For an even more integrated approach, add a handful of fresh spinach leaves or finely chopped kale directly into the skillet when you stir in the cheese. Stir until the leaves are wilted for a quick vegetable boost within the dish.

To truly elevate your meal and keep with the Italian theme, consider a cocktail pairing:

• Aperol Spritz: A light, bubbly, and slightly bitter Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian aperitif that beautifully complements the savory flavors of the pasta.
• Aperol Soda: For a non-alcoholic or lighter option, an Aperol soda provides similar refreshing notes without the alcohol content.
• Amaro Sour: For those who appreciate a more sophisticated libation, an Amaro Sour offers a complex, herbal, and slightly bitter profile that can beautifully contrast and highlight the dish’s richness.

Whether enjoyed simply or paired with elegant sides and drinks, this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet promises a delightful dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet makes for fantastic leftovers, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner the next day. Here’s how to properly store and reheat your delicious creation:

To Store:

• If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), the first and most important step is to allow them to **cool completely to room temperature** before transferring them to storage containers. This prevents condensation and helps maintain the quality of the food.
• Once cooled, place the pasta skillet leftovers in an **airtight container**. This will protect them from absorbing other fridge odors and keep them fresh.
• Store the airtight container in the **refrigerator** for up to **3 to 4 days**. Beyond this, the pasta can start to lose its optimal texture.

To Reheat:

• Microwave: For individual portions, the microwave is your quickest option. Place the desired amount of pasta in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely (a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel works well) to help retain moisture and prevent splattering. Reheat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly warmed. You may need to add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce if it seems a bit dry.
• Oven (for larger portions or crispier cheese): If you’re reheating a larger portion or prefer the cheese to crisp up again, the oven is ideal. Preheat your oven to 300-325°F (150-160°C). Place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish and cover it loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Bake for 15-25 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier cheese topping, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
• Stovetop: For a single serving, you can also reheat on the stovetop. Place the pasta in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth to create some steam and prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Enjoying your leftovers ensures none of that delicious Chicken Parmesan Pasta goes to waste!

More Italian-Inspired Dinner Ideas

If you’ve enjoyed the comforting flavors of this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet, you’re in for a treat! Italian cuisine is brimming with delicious and satisfying dishes perfect for any dinner occasion. Here are some more Italian-inspired recipes to add to your repertoire:

• Spicy Italian Stuffed Peppers: These hearty peppers are filled with a robust mixture of seasoned ground beef, rich marinara sauce, fresh herbs, melted cheese, and tender vegetables, offering a flavorful and substantial meal.
• Grilled Tomato Italian Grinder Sandwich: Elevate your sandwich game with this incredible grinder layered with thinly sliced Italian meats, gooey mozzarella cheese, and sweet, smoky grilled tomatoes. It’s a sandwich that truly satisfies.
• Tuscan White Bean Soup: A wonderfully creamy, fresh, and vegetable-packed soup that’s both comforting and nourishing. This soup is super easy to prepare ahead of time for busy weeknights or freezes beautifully for future meals.
• Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta: This delightful dish is a simple yet elegant citrus-forward meal that the whole family will adore. The bright lemon notes perfectly complement the creamy sauce and tender chicken.

Each of these recipes brings a unique taste of Italy to your kitchen, proving that delicious, wholesome meals can be both accessible and incredibly flavorful.

Finally, if you whip up this fantastic Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet recipe, please do me a huge favor and give it a star rating on the recipe card below, or better yet, leave a comment to share your experience! I absolutely love hearing from you all when you make my recipes, and I truly dedicate time to respond to every single comment. Your feedback means the world to me and helps others discover these delicious dishes.

Also, don’t hesitate to drop any questions you might have in the comments section below – I’m always here to help!

Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! It brings me immense joy to see these recipes come to life in your homes – looking through those photos is genuinely my favorite thing. It really does mean the world to me!

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Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

All the comforting flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan, transformed into an extra cheesy, irresistible pasta skillet with a vibrant homemade tomato sauce – perfect for any night of the week.

Prep Time:
10 minutes mins

Cook Time:
55 minutes mins

Total Time:
1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings:
6

5 from 1 vote

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Equipment

• Utility Cutting Board
• Shun Chef’s Knife
• Cast Iron Skillet (or high-quality stainless steel)
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 skinless boneless chicken breasts cut into 1 to 2-inch chunks
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil

For the Pasta Skillet

• 14 oz penne pasta cooked al dente
• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves minced (or 1 tbsp jarred)
• 1 yellow onion diced
• 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
• 3 cups 24 oz tomato puree (or marinara sauce*)
• 1 Tbsp fresh thyme chopped (use 1/2 tsp dried)
• 1 Tbsp fresh oregano chopped (use 1/2 tsp dried)
• 2 Tbsp fresh basil chopped + more for garnish (use 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp granulated sugar optional**
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

• Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
• In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
• In a large, oven-safe skillet (preferably stainless steel or cast iron), heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 7 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, leaving any browned bits in the pan.
• Preheat the oven to 375˚F (190˚C).
• In the same skillet (without cleaning it), add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, stirring occasionally, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
• Stir in the tomato puree, diced tomatoes, fresh thyme, oregano, basil, and granulated sugar (if using). Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate them into the sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper, as desired.
• Add the drained pasta and the cooked chicken back into the sauce, stirring to combine everything thoroughly. Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and all of the grated parmesan cheese. Top the entire skillet with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
• Carefully place the skillet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
• Garnish with more freshly chopped basil and a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese, if desired, before serving hot.

Video

Notes

*Want to use a shortcut? For a quicker sauce, use pre-made marinara sauce instead of the diced tomatoes and tomato puree. You will need approximately 40 ounces for this recipe. Simply warm the marinara in the skillet after cooking the chicken, ensuring you scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add in the fresh (or dried) herbs for additional flavor, then incorporate the cooked chicken and pasta and continue with the recipe as instructed.

**Sugar Sweetener Note: Only use the granulated sugar if you are preparing the sauce with tomato puree and diced tomatoes. If you opt to use pre-made marinara sauce, it is generally recommended to skip the added sugar, as marinara often already contains sweeteners. Always taste and adjust to your preference.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcal |
Carbohydrates: 70g |
Protein: 29g |
Fat: 15g |
Saturated Fat: 6g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 6g |
Trans Fat: 0.01g |
Cholesterol: 53mg |
Sodium: 706mg |
Potassium: 1096mg |
Fiber: 6g |
Sugar: 12g |
Vitamin A: 1132IU |
Vitamin C: 25mg |
Calcium: 305mg |
Iron: 5mg

Calories:
520kcal

Category:
Main Dish