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Chicken Parm Pasta

Chicken Parm Pasta

All the comfort of classic Chicken Parmesan meets the ease of a one-pan pasta dinner in this Chicken Parm Pasta. Crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara, and melty cheese come together with tender pasta for a meal that's rich, cheesy, and bursting with Italian flavor — perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 640
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

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 pasta water
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic 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
  • 0.75 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • fresh basil leaves torn, for garnish
  • extra Parmesan for serving

Method
 

  1. Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken: Cook the frozen breaded chicken according to package instructions until crisp and golden. Let cool slightly, then slice into strips.
  2. Step 2 – Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside — it will finish cooking in the sauce.
  3. Step 3 – Build the Flavor Base: In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion 6–7 minutes until soft, then add garlic and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Step 4 – Add the Sauce and Combine: Stir in marinara and 1 teaspoon salt. Simmer 3–4 minutes, then add cooked pasta and ½ cup Parmesan. Stir to coat evenly.
  5. Step 5 – Add Cheese and Chicken: Sprinkle remaining Parmesan and mozzarella evenly over the pasta. Arrange sliced chicken strips on top.
  6. Step 6 – Bake to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to a 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
  7. Step 7 – Finish and Serve: Remove from oven, top with torn basil and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy!

Notes

For best results, use high-quality marinara and freshly grated cheese. To lighten it up, use grilled or air-fried chicken. To make ahead, assemble the pasta before baking and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake straight from the fridge when ready to serve.