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There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. With its crispy golden chicken, cheesy marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is both satisfying and simple to prepare. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or looking for a family favorite that everyone will devour, this Italian-inspired classic is a winner every time.

Unlike traditional Chicken Parmesan that’s heavy on prep and baking time, this version focuses on keeping things quick and easy without sacrificing flavor. It’s a one-pan-friendly, crowd-pleasing recipe that combines everything you love: cheese, pasta, and crispy chicken. And if you’re wondering how to make sure your pasta is just right, here’s a handy guide on how to cook pasta perfectly al dente to get the ideal texture.

One of the keys to this dish’s success is using a high-quality Parmesan cheese that adds depth and richness. Not only does it elevate the flavor, but it also provides a dose of nutrients, as detailed in this breakdown of the health benefits of Parmesan cheese. Pair it with fresh herbs and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, and you’ve got a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here’s everything you need to make this creamy, cheesy pasta perfection:

Pasta

Cavatappi (preferred for its ability to trap sauce)
Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli as alternatives
Gluten-free pasta can be substituted as needed

Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into 4 cutlets)
Air fryer or oven-baked versions for a lighter take
Rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time

Breading

All-purpose flour
Panko breadcrumbs for crunch (use traditional if needed)
Finely grated Parmesan cheese

Cheese

Mozzarella (shredded or fresh)
Extra Parmesan for layering and garnish

Sauce

Homemade or jarred marinara sauce
Onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning
A pinch of red pepper flakes for optional heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken

Slice chicken breasts horizontally into even cutlets.
Set up three breading stations:
- Bowl 1: flour + salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder
- Bowl 2: beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: panko + grated Parmesan
Dredge each cutlet: flour → eggs → panko-Parmesan mix
Set aside on a plate while heating oil in a skillet

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
Cook cutlets 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (safe cooking temperature guide)
Remove and tent with foil to keep warm

Boil the Pasta

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water
Drain and set aside

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté onion until soft
Add garlic and cook 1 minute
Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes
Add pasta and stir to coat; thin with reserved pasta water if needed

Combine & Broil

Top pasta with mozzarella and Parmesan
Broil 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly
Slice chicken and place on top of the pasta
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan

Tips, Tricks & Customizations

Want to make it your own? Here’s how:

Vegetarian version: Use breaded eggplant or zucchini
Add veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers blend well
Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese
Turn it into a bake: Assemble in a casserole dish and bake for 15 mins
Spice it up: Add smoked paprika or extra crushed red pepper

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days
Reheat in the microwave or oven (covered at 350°F for 10–15 mins)
Freeze in portions for up to 1 month (omit fresh herbs when freezing)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: ~580
Protein: ~35g
Carbs: ~45g
Fat: ~28g
Lighter swaps: use low-fat cheese and bake instead of pan-fry

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking cutlets?
Yes! It’s a great shortcut. Shred and toss the cooked chicken into the sauce before broiling.

What’s the best pasta to use?
Cavatappi holds sauce beautifully, but penne or fusilli also work great.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.

How do I make it more creamy?
Add ¼ cup of heavy cream to the sauce or stir in some softened cream cheese.

Can I freeze Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Yes—just be sure to cool it completely and skip fresh garnishes before freezing.

Final Thoughts & Serving Ideas

Serve this Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta with:

A crisp Caesar salad
Warm garlic bread
A glass of dry white wine or a mild red like Pinot Noir