Introduction
Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. With tender chicken, hearty pasta, and rich marinara sauce, it’s a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Get ready for a delicious, family-friendly dinner that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
500g penne pasta
300g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
30g all-purpose flour
5g salt
3g black pepper
60ml olive oil
400ml marinara sauce
100g mozzarella cheese, shredded
50g Parmesan cheese, grated
10g garlic, minced
5g Italian seasoning
10g fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which will be about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing it to cool slightly. The pasta should have a firm bite to it and be ready to absorb the rich flavors to come.
Step 2: Dredge the Chicken
In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper. Take the bite-sized pieces of chicken breast and dredge them thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This will create a delightful, crispy exterior when cooked.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the coated chicken pieces. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and no longer pink in the center, approximately 6-8 minutes. The aroma will be heavenly! Once finished, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, without cleaning it, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, letting the garlic infuse its flavor into the oil. Pour in the marinara sauce and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, stirring well to combine and create a fragrant sauce.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the delightful flavors of the sauce.
Step 6: Mix in the Pasta
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together gently to ensure the pasta is well coated with the sauce and chicken. The combination of textures and aromas will be irresistible.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the cheese to melt over the dish for about 3-5 minutes, filling the kitchen with an enticing cheesy aroma.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
If you like, sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the pasta before serving. This adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh flavor that enhances the dish beautifully. Now, it’s time to enjoy your hearty Chicken Parmesan Pasta!
Notes
Prep Tips
– Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, particularly the garlic and basil.
Flavor Variations
– You can add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
– For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the meal.
– A glass of red wine would complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage Directions
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Recipe Customizations
– Substitute the penne pasta with your favorite type of pasta, such as rigatoni or fusilli.
– For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and flour.
Cooking Tools Required
– Large pot for boiling pasta
– Large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
– Shallow dish for flour mixture
– Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Promise of Comfort
– This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet delicious enough to impress guests. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your dinner table.
Cook Techniques
Dredging
Dredging helps to create a crispy exterior on the chicken. Coat the chicken pieces in a mixture of flour, salt, and black pepper before cooking to enhance texture and flavor.
Sautéing
Sautéing the chicken in olive oil over medium heat ensures even cooking and a golden-brown finish. This technique locks in moisture and enhances the chicken’s flavor.
Simmering
Simmering the chicken in the marinara sauce allows the flavors to meld together. It keeps the chicken moist and infuses the sauce with the savory notes of the cooked chicken.
Melting Cheese
Covering the skillet while melting the cheese creates a gooey, irresistible topping over the pasta. This technique uses steam to gently heat the cheese without overcooking it.
Garnishing
Garnishing with fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also fresh flavor. Adding this at the end ensures the herb maintains its bright taste and aroma.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne with any pasta of your choice, such as fusilli, spaghetti, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then mix with cooked pasta just before serving. Just reheat thoroughly.
What can I use instead of chicken breast?
You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even swap for tofu or eggplant for a vegetarian version.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, Chicken Parmesan Pasta can be frozen. Store in an airtight container and reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce for an extra kick of heat.
Conclusion
This Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe brings together the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine in a delightful and easy-to-make dish. Perfect for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, it combines the juicy tenderness of chicken with the melty goodness of cheese and the heartiness of pasta. With a simple preparation process and delicious results, it’s sure to become a new favorite around the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Replace marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a rich and decadent twist on the classic dish.
Vegetable Parmesan Pasta
Add seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach for a healthy and colorful addition to your pasta.
Spicy Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Incorporate red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce for an added kick of heat.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Enhance the dish with fresh lemon juice and zest, along with sautéed garlic for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Cheesy Chicken Baked Pasta
Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheeses, and bake until bubbly and golden for a comforting casserole-style dish.
Pesto Chicken Pasta
Substitute marinara with pesto sauce for a vibrant, herb-infused version that elevates the usual flavors.
