Chicken Parm and Pasta Skillet

Chicken Parm and Pasta Skillet is a one-pan comfort dish that combines the classic flavors of chicken parmesan with tender pasta and melty cheese. It’s a quick and satisfying dinner that delivers the rich, hearty taste of a traditional Italian favorite in a simple, weeknight-friendly format.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe transforms the beloved chicken parm into a quick, all-in-one skillet meal that minimizes cleanup without sacrificing flavor. With crispy breaded chicken, savory garlic, robust tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese all tossed with pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food made accessible and convenient. Perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 ounces rigatoni pasta
• 8 ounces frozen breaded chicken breast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced, divided
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend, divided
• Small handful fresh basil leaves

Directions

1. Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the frozen breaded chicken according to package instructions (typically bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes or until golden and fully heated).
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add half of the sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the drained diced tomatoes and marinara sauce to the skillet. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Stir in the cooked pasta and half of the shredded Italian cheese blend.
6. Slice the baked breaded chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces and place on top of the pasta mixture.
7. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow to cook on low heat for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 3–4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
• Fresh Mozzarella: Substitute shredded cheese with slices of fresh mozzarella for a classic touch.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based breaded chicken or eggplant cutlets instead.
• Pasta Swap: Use penne, ziti, or any short pasta of your choice.
• Extra Herbs: Add chopped oregano or parsley for an herby finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the skillet (or portion) over low heat on the stove or microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes, until heated through.
For best texture, avoid freezing as the breaded chicken may become soggy upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use homemade breaded chicken?

Yes, homemade breaded and baked or fried chicken works beautifully in this dish.

What if I don’t have rigatoni?

Any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle will work well.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance, but add and melt the cheese just before serving for best results.

How do I prevent the chicken from getting soggy?

Add the chicken on top just before melting the cheese to maintain its crispiness.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions to the sauce.

What is Italian cheese blend?

It typically includes mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and sometimes Romano or Asiago.

Can I make this dish in the oven?

Yes, assemble everything in an oven-safe skillet and bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until bubbly.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Use gluten-free pasta and breaded chicken to make the dish gluten-free.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but cook them down to reduce excess moisture and deepen flavor.

How can I add more protein?

Top with extra chicken or stir in cooked sausage or chickpeas.

Conclusion

Chicken Parm and Pasta Skillet is a flavorful, satisfying meal that brings all the deliciousness of traditional chicken parmesan into a fast, one-pan dinner. Easy to customize and loved by all ages, it’s a dependable go-to recipe that’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals.

Chicken Parm and Pasta Skillet

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 3–4 servings

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Description

This Chicken Parm and Pasta Skillet is a quick and cheesy one-pan twist on a classic Italian-American favorite. Crispy chicken, hearty rigatoni, marinara, and melted cheese come together for a comforting, weeknight-friendly dish packed with flavor and ease.

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Ingredients

• 6 ounces rigatoni pasta

• 8 ounces frozen breaded chicken breast

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced (divided use)

• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained

• 1 cup marinara sauce

• 1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend (divided)

 

• Small handful fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn

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Instructions

• Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

• Prepare the Chicken:

  • Cook the frozen breaded chicken breasts according to package instructions (bake or air fry until crispy). Cut into bite-sized pieces once cooked.

• Sauté Garlic:

  • In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

  • Add half the sliced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

• Build the Sauce:

  • Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and marinara sauce. Add the remaining garlic and simmer for 5–7 minutes to blend flavors.

• Combine and Bake:

  • Stir the cooked pasta and chicken into the skillet with the sauce. Mix well.

  • Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the mixture and stir to combine.

  • Top with the remaining cheese and transfer the skillet to the oven. Broil on high for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

 

• Finish and Serve:

  • Remove from the oven, top with fresh basil, and serve hot!

Notes

• For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes or a spoonful of pesto before broiling.

• Substitute rotisserie or grilled chicken for a lighter version.

 

• This dish reheats well and makes excellent leftovers.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American