This Chicken Parmesan Pasta brings all the classic flavors of the beloved Italian dish into an easy, one-pot meal. With tender pasta, savory ground chicken, and a rich marinara sauce, this dish is topped with a generous layer of gooey mozzarella and nutty Parmesan cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest—perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. The addition of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, while a sprinkle of fresh basil gives it a bright, aromatic finish.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces small or medium pasta (ziti, penne, etc.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup diced white onion
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb ground chicken (or diced boneless, skinless chicken breasts)
- 24 ounces marinara sauce (Rao’s recommended)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- (Optional) Fresh basil for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken:
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the chicken is fully cooked and browned. If using diced chicken breasts, cook until the pieces are browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Season with the red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
4. Add the Marinara Sauce:
- Pour the marinara sauce over the cooked chicken mixture and stir well to combine. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and marinara sauce. Toss until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
6. Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir to combine. Then, evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or foil, and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve the Chicken Parmesan Pasta hot, with extra Parmesan on the side for sprinkling.
Tips:
- Chicken Options: You can use ground chicken for a quicker cooking time, or opt for diced chicken breasts for a heartier bite. If you prefer, substitute ground turkey or even ground beef for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese: For an extra cheesy dish, add more mozzarella or even a layer of ricotta cheese for creaminess.
- Baking Option: If you prefer a baked version, transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan, and bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
This Chicken Parmesan Pasta is versatile, easy to make, and sure to become a family favorite!
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