Chicken Parm Pasta
Ingredients
- kosher salt
- 12 oz.store-bought cooked frozen breaded chicken cutlets
- 1 lb.cavatappi or other short pasta
- 1 tbsp.extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 smallyellow onion
finely chopped
- 2garlic cloves
finely chopped
- 4 c.store-bought or homemade marinara sauce
- 2 oz.parmesan
finely grated, divided, plus more for serving, about 1 cup
- ¾ c.shredded mozzarella
- freshly ground black pepper
- torn fresh basil
for serving
Directions
- 1
Cook frozen chicken according to package instructions. Let cool, then cut crosswise into strips.
- 2
Arrange a rack in center of oven; preheat to 400°. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta, stirring occasionally, until al dente according to package directions. Drain.
- 3
Meanwhile, in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Cook onion, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 7 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, around 1 minute more. Add marinara and 1 tsp. salt and bring to a low simmer.
- 4
Add pasta to skillet and stir to coat in sauce. Add 1/2 cup Parmesan and toss until melted. Top with 1/2 cup Parmesan, then sprinkle with mozzarella. Arrange chicken on top of mozzarella.
- 5
Bake chicken Parm pasta until cheese is melted and chicken is warmed through, 10 to 12 minutes.
- 6
Season with a few grinds of pepper. Top with basil and more Parmesan.
Chicken Parm Pasta
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About this Recipe
Craving the comforting flavors of chicken Parmesan but short on time? This Chicken Parm Pasta recipe brings together two beloved classics into one incredibly satisfying and speedy dinner.
This dish shines by leveraging smart shortcuts like store-bought cooked breaded chicken cutlets and pre-made marinara, ensuring you get deep, rich flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a genius way to enjoy the crispy chicken and cheesy goodness of your favorite American comfort meal, perfectly integrated with hearty pasta.
Imagine tender cavatappi pasta coated in a savory marinara sauce, infused with the aromatic sweetness of sautéed yellow onion and garlic. Each forkful delivers a delightful combination of textures: the satisfying chew of the pasta, the succulent chicken, and the gooey, melted mozzarella mingling with sharp Parmesan. The fresh basil adds a vibrant, fragrant finish, making every bite feel like a special occasion, yet it's easy enough for any weeknight meal.
Feel free to experiment with your favorite short pasta, such as penne or rotini, if cavatappi isn't on hand. For a vegetarian twist, consider omitting the chicken and adding sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. If you prefer a milder cheese, provolone can be used alongside or instead of mozzarella.
This hearty Chicken Parm Pasta is perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a comforting main dish for a casual dinner party. Serve it with a simple green salad and a slice of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce.