Chicken Parm Pasta

If you love comfort food that’s rich, cheesy, and bursting with Italian flavor, this Chicken Parm Pasta will be your new favorite weeknight dinner. It combines all the beloved elements of classic Chicken Parmesan—crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese—with tender pasta for a one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Perfect for busy nights or cozy family dinners, this dish delivers restaurant-quality comfort in under an hour.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan simplicity – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
• Family-friendly favorite – Everyone loves cheesy, saucy pasta with crispy chicken.
• Quick and convenient – Uses store-bought cutlets and marinara to save time.
• Cheesy perfection – A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan gives it that golden, bubbly finish.
• Endlessly adaptable – Swap the pasta, sauce, or toppings to make it your own.

This Chicken Parm Pasta stands out for its rich balance of flavors—savory chicken, creamy cheese, and perfectly coated noodles—making it a true comfort classic that feels both indulgent and effortless.

Ingredients Needed

For the Chicken and Pasta

• 12 oz. frozen breaded chicken cutlets, cooked according to package directions and sliced into strips
• 1 lb. cavatappi pasta (or any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini)
• Kosher salt, for seasoning the pasta water

For the Sauce

• 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil – for sautéing
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Cheesy Finish

• 2 oz. Parmesan cheese, finely grated (about 1 cup total), divided
• ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish
• Extra Parmesan, for serving

Tip: Use high-quality marinara and fresh cheese for the most flavorful results.

How to Make Chicken Parm Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cook the frozen breaded chicken according to package instructions until crisp and golden. Let it cool slightly, then slice it crosswise into strips. This makes it easier to layer and ensures every bite includes a bit of that crispy coating.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente—you want it slightly firm since it’ll finish cooking in the sauce later. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Place an oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent (about 6–7 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant. This step builds the aromatic base for your sauce.

Step 4: Add the Sauce and Combine

Pour in the marinara sauce and stir in 1 teaspoon of salt. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes so the flavors meld together. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, stirring to coat every piece evenly. Mix in ½ cup Parmesan until it melts and blends into the sauce.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Chicken

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup Parmesan and the shredded mozzarella evenly on top. Arrange the sliced chicken strips over the cheese layer. This creates that classic Chicken Parm look and ensures everything bakes together beautifully.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the skillet to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Remove from the oven and season with freshly ground black pepper. Garnish with torn basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a touch of freshness and flavor. Serve immediately while hot and gooey!

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Pair this Chicken Parm Pasta with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice finishing touch.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or reheat individual portions in the microwave. Add a splash of water or sauce before reheating to keep the pasta moist.

Helpful Notes

• Make it lighter: Use grilled chicken or air-fried cutlets instead of breaded ones.
• Boost flavor: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or Italian seasoning to the sauce.
• Cheese swap: Try provolone, fontina, or a mix of Italian cheeses for a unique twist.
• Make it ahead: Assemble everything up to the baking step, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

This Chicken Parm Pasta brings together everything you love about the classic Italian-American favorite—crispy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese—all tossed with pasta for the ultimate comfort meal. It’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for company.

If you make this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment and a star rating below! Share your creation on Pinterest or Facebook, and tell us: What’s your favorite twist on Chicken Parmesan? We’d love to hear how you make it your own!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use grilled chicken instead of breaded cutlets?

Absolutely! Grilled or baked chicken works just as well and makes the dish a bit lighter. Just be sure to season it well to maintain that savory flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes—simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and breaded chicken made with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It can be! Assemble the dish (without baking) and freeze it tightly covered for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Definitely. Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini holds the sauce best, but any type works in a pinch.

Why is my sauce too thin?

If the sauce seems watery, simmer it a bit longer before adding the pasta—it should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.