Chicken Parm Pasta

Chicken Parm Pasta: A Heartwarming Delight

Elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that screams comfort and nostalgia: Chicken Parm Pasta. This indulgent recipe fuses the hearty goodness of tender chicken cutlets, gooey melted cheese, and the warm embrace of marinara sauce, all enveloped in a glorious bed of cavatappi pasta. The combination is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a celebration of family traditions and home cooking. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this meal ticks all the boxes: fast, kid-friendly, and utterly satisfying. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes to perfection, enticing everyone to gather around the table. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire!

What’s Your Go-To Comfort Food?

Do you ever find yourself longing for a meal that wraps you in a warm embrace, evoking childhood memories of family dinners? Picture this: a steaming plate of Chicken Parm Pasta, the cheese bubbling enticingly, the rich marinara giving off savory aromas, beckoning you to indulge. What’s your favorite comfort food memory? Perhaps it’s a cozy night in with friends or family, sharing stories while savoring every cheesy bite. This recipe captures that magic, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Parm Pasta is not just about deliciousness; it’s about convenience and joy:

• Effortless Preparation: Using store-bought cooked frozen chicken cutlets means cutting prep time and maximizing flavor.

• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.

• Minimal Ingredients: Featuring mostly pantry staples, you can whip it up with little planning.

• Versatile: Perfect for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s a flexible recipe that suits all occasions.

Ingredients

Gather these simple yet impactful ingredients to create your culinary masterpiece:

• 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 12 oz. store-bought cooked frozen breaded chicken cutlets
• 1 lb. cavatappi or other short pasta
• 4 cups store-bought or homemade marinara sauce
• 2 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 1 cup), divided, plus more for serving
• 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Torn fresh basil, for serving
• Kosher salt

As the ingredients come together, imagine the comforting scent of garlic and onions sautéing in the olive oil, setting the stage for an indulgent meal that awaits!

Timing

Whipping up this Chicken Parm Pasta is a breeze. With a total cook time of approximately 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those evenings when you want something fast and indulgent. On the other hand, if you’re in the mood to savor a luxurious moment, take your time with the marinara sauce, allowing the flavors to mingle and deepen. It’s versatile, giving you the option for both quick meals and leisurely cooking.

Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cook the frozen chicken according to package instructions. Let cool slightly, then cut into strips, creating tender morsels that will crown your pasta.

2. Preheat the Oven: Arrange a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the cavatappi. Cook until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, then drain it and set aside.

4. Sauté Vegetables: In a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion, stirring occasionally until it becomes translucent, about 7 minutes. Add the garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute more.

5. Create the Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring everything to a low simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

6. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the rich marinara sauce. Fold in 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and envelops the pasta in cheesy goodness.

7. Assemble and Bake: Top with an additional 1/2 cup of Parmesan, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Finish and Serve: Season with freshly ground black pepper and toss on torn fresh basil leaves for that aromatic finish.

As you pull the skillet out of the oven, let the warm aroma wash over you. Picture the stringy mozzarella, the bright marinara, and the golden, crispy chicken all mingling deliciously—as much a feast for the eyes as for the palate!

Nutritional Information

Indulging in Chicken Parm Pasta can be guilt-free! A generous serving contains about 600 calories, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that balances nutrition with indulgence. However, it’s perfectly acceptable to embrace the occasional treat because who can resist the magic of gooey cheese and savory chicken?

Healthier Alternatives

For those looking to lighten up this dish without sacrificing flavor, consider these options:

• Low-Sugar Marinara: Swap traditional marinara for a low-sugar version to cut down on hidden sugars while maintaining the heartiness.

• Dairy-Free Cheese: If you’re avoiding dairy, opt for plant-based cheese alternatives that melt well, ensuring everyone enjoys the cheesy goodness.

• Whole Wheat Pasta: Consider using whole wheat pasta for a boost in fiber while enjoying the same delightful texture.

• Zucchini Noodles: Veggie lovers can use spiralized zucchini as a low-carb substitute, pairing well with the rich marinara sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This delightful Chicken Parm Pasta is perfect for various dining occasions. Serve it alongside garlic bread for a classic Italian experience or a crisp green salad to balance out the rich flavors. And why not indulge a little more? Pair it with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for dessert—because a perfect meal deserves a perfect ending!

Common Mistakes

As you prepare this dish, watch out for a few common pitfalls:

• Overbaking: Stay vigilant while baking to prevent the cheese from turning rubbery. Remove it once the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Texture Issues: For the best texture, avoid overcooking the pasta. A firm al dente bite holds up beautifully against the hearty sauce.

• Messes in the Kitchen: Keep your workspace organized and clean as you go to prevent overwhelming messes during this delicious endeavor.

Storing Tips

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (though highly unlikely!), store them wisely:

• Freezing Portions: Portion out the Chicken Parm Pasta in airtight containers. It freezes beautifully for later enjoyment!

• Reheating Instructions: When it’s time to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through, ensuring the cheese remains delightful.

Tempting Readers to Bake It ASAP

It’s time to roll up your sleeves—this Chicken Parm Pasta is a must-try! The blend of flavors, the comforting cheesiness, and the ease of preparation make it a standout dish in any kitchen. Don’t wait for a special occasion; make it tonight for a dinner that will delight your taste buds and wrap you in warmth. Gather your ingredients, turn on your favorite tunes, and get ready to enjoy a delightful feast that’s just a moment away!

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cavatappi works beautifully, feel free to experiment with other short pasta like penne or fusilli.

2. Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen cutlets?

Yes! Just cook the chicken breast until golden and fully cooked before slicing and adding it to the pasta.

3. Is this dish freezable?

Yes, it freezes well! Just be sure to thaw it properly before reheating for the best results.

4. How can I adapt this recipe for a crowd?

Simply double the recipe! Use a larger skillet if needed and bake in a deeper dish to accommodate more servings.

5. What should I serve with Chicken Parm Pasta?

Classic pairings include garlic bread and a fresh salad. For dessert, consider a light sorbet or rich ice cream to complement the dish.

This Chicken Parm Pasta is waiting in the wings—don’t hesitate; indulge in this comforting, cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to become a cherished favorite!

Chicken Parm Pasta

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

A heartwarming Chicken Parm Pasta dish that combines tender chicken cutlets, gooey cheese, and marinara sauce, all embraced by cavatappi pasta.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 12 oz. store-bought cooked frozen breaded chicken cutlets
• 1 lb. cavatappi or other short pasta
• 4 cups store-bought or homemade marinara sauce
• 2 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 1 cup), divided, plus more for serving
• 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Torn fresh basil, for serving
• Kosher salt

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Instructions

1. Cook the frozen chicken according to package instructions. Let cool slightly, then cut into strips.
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the cavatappi. Cook until al dente, drain and set aside.
4. In a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Pour in the marinara sauce and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a low simmer.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Stir in 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Top with an additional 1/2 cup of Parmesan and sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top. Arrange the sliced chicken on top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Season with black pepper and add torn basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Be careful not to overbake to prevent the cheese from turning rubbery. This dish freezes well for later enjoyment.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 70g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 90mg