Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

A perfect blend of Italian comfort and weeknight simplicity comes together in this one-skillet chicken parmesan pasta. Golden pieces of chicken nestle among tender penne pasta, all enrobed in a rich marinara sauce and blanketed with melty cheese. This dish transforms the classic restaurant favorite into an achievable family meal that delivers that same satisfying comfort in half the time.

Last night, I made this for my family after a particularly hectic day. As the aroma of garlic and herbs filled the kitchen, everyone gravitated toward the stove, asking when dinner would be ready. There's something magical about the way cheese and tomato sauce can bring people together.

Essential Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: The star protein needs to be cut into even pieces for perfect cooking. Look for breasts of similar size or butterfly thicker ones
• Penne Pasta: Those little tubes trap sauce and bits of cheese inside, ensuring flavor in every bite. The ridged exterior grabs onto sauce beautifully
• Marinara Sauce: Choose a high-quality sauce since it's a dominant flavor. San Marzano tomatoes make an incredible base if you're going homemade
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated brings the most flavor - pre-grated lacks the same punch and doesn't melt as smoothly
• Mozzarella: Creates those irresistible cheese pulls that make this dish Instagram-worthy. Fresh or low-moisture both work beautifully

Pin it

Detailed Instructions

Pasta Preparation:

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil

Cook pasta just until al dente, saving some starchy cooking water

Drain pasta while still slightly firm as it will continue cooking in the sauce

Chicken Magic:

Season chicken generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs

Cook in a hot skillet until golden brown on all sides

Remove and let rest before adding back to the dish

Sauce Symphony:

Get your pan nice and hot before adding marinara

Let sauce bubble and reduce slightly to concentrate flavors

Add reserved pasta water gradually to create the perfect consistency

Some of my fondest cooking memories involve making this dish with my daughter. She's become the official cheese sprinkler, and her face lights up every time she sees those first bubbles appear in the melting mozzarella. It's taught her that amazing meals don't require complicated techniques or fancy ingredients.

The Art of One-Pan Cooking

There's something deeply satisfying about watching this dish come together in a single skillet. Each layer builds on the last, creating a symphony of flavors that would be impossible to achieve if cooked separately. The chicken picks up flavor from the browning process, then shares that richness with the sauce. The pasta absorbs all these beautiful flavors while releasing just enough starch to create a silky finish.

Perfect Pairings

This hearty dish begs for a crisp green salad dressed simply with olive oil and lemon juice. A side of garlic bread proves perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce. For wine lovers, a medium-bodied Italian red like Chianti complements the flavors beautifully without overwhelming them.

Flavor Adventures

Transform this basic recipe into your own signature dish by playing with different ingredients. Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch, or stir in fresh spinach for extra nutrition. Switch up the cheese blend with provolone or fontina. During summer months, toss in fresh cherry tomatoes and basil for a garden-fresh twist.

Storage Success

Keep this comfort food favorite fresh by storing in an airtight container. The flavors actually develop overnight, making leftovers something to look forward to. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra marinara to bring back that perfect saucy consistency. A quick trip under the broiler can revive that crispy cheese top.

Pin it

Every time I make this chicken parmesan pasta, I'm reminded that the best family meals often come from simple ingredients cooked with care. The way the cheese stretches with each forkful, how the sauce clings to every piece of pasta, and most importantly, the satisfied smiles around my dinner table make this dish a true kitchen victory. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday dinner, this recipe proves that comfort food doesn't need to be complicated to be completely delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why reserve pasta water?

Starchy water helps create silky sauce and prevents dish from drying out.

→ Can I use different pasta?

Any short pasta shape works well in this dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep in airtight container in fridge 3-4 days or freeze up to 3 months.

→ What marinara works best?

Any quality jarred marinara works. Use your favorite brand.

→ Why cook pasta al dente?

Slightly firm pasta will continue cooking in sauce without becoming mushy.