Ah, One-Pan Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti! Just hearing that name makes my heart sing and my stomach growl! This dish is a pure celebration of comfort food, and I’ll tell you why it holds a special place in my kitchen. A few years ago, I had a casual dinner with some friends, and one of them whipped up this amazing dish. I was completely blown away. Not only did it look stunning, but the flavors were incredible! Ever since then, it’s been my go-to meal for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in.
What’s even better is the one-pan aspect of this recipe. You get to pair crispy, cheesy chicken with perfectly cooked spaghetti—all in one pan! It’s a win-win for flavor and easy clean-up! Now, let’s dive into what makes this dish so delightful.
What’s in One-Pan Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti?
Chicken Breast: The star of the show! Juicy and tender, chicken breasts are breaded and baked to crispy perfection. I usually go for organic chicken breast because it’s plump and flavorful.
Breadcrumbs: I use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch. They create that gorgeous texture on the chicken that you won’t get from regular breadcrumbs. If you’re feeling adventurous, try seasoning your breadcrumbs with Italian herbs for more flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Oh, the cheese! It adds a nutty flavor and lovely creaminess to the dish. Freshly grated Parmesan is best, but pre-grated works in a pinch. Just don’t skimp on the quantity!
Marinara Sauce: A good-quality marinara sauce helps tie the dish together with its rich and tangy flavor. I love using homemade sauce when I can, but jarred sauces from brands like Rao’s are my go-to lifesaver.
Spaghetti: Everyone’s favorite pasta! It’s simple, classic, and pairs so well with the chicken and sauce. Make sure to cook it al dente, so it holds its shape in the pan.
Basil Leaves: Fresh basil gives this dish a vibrant finish and adds a burst of flavor that elevates the whole meal. Plus, it looks gorgeous sprinkled on top!
Is One-Pan Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti Good for You?
This dish wonderfully balances indulgence and nutrition! While it’s a comforting meal, there are definitely some health perks you might be after.
Chicken Breast: Packed with protein, chicken is essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s great for maintaining a healthy diet!
Marinara Sauce: With tomatoes as its base, marinara sauce contains vitamins C and A, as well as antioxidants. Just keep an eye on the sugar content in jarred sauces; some can have unwanted extras.
Whole Wheat Pasta: If you opt for whole wheat spaghetti, you’ll ramp up the fiber content, which is excellent for digestion and keeping you full longer.
However, let’s be real: this is a comfort food dish, so moderation is key! If you’re watching your calorie intake or prefer lighter meals, consider pairing the dish with a fresh salad for some added veggies.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (serves 4)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 8 ounces spaghetti (or any pasta you prefer)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
How to Make One-Pan Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together your panko breadcrumbs, half of the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
4. In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the chicken, and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Add uncooked spaghetti around the chicken in the same pan, then pour in enough water to cover the pasta. Bring it to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce the heat, cooking for about 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
7. Once the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is tender, garnish with freshly chopped basil.
8. Serve it straight from the pan—your dinner guests will be wowed!
Little Tricks for a Perfect One-Pan Wonder!
– Don’t forget to taste the pasta water! It should be seasoned well before it soaks into the spaghetti.
– For a crunchy topping, broil the dish for a few minutes after it’s done cooking to achieve an extra crispy finish.
– Feel free to swap out chicken for eggplant or zucchini slices for a vegetarian take—just adjust your cooking time accordingly!
Somedays, all you need is a big slice of crispy chicken smothered in cheese and sauce, all cozied up with spaghetti. I genuinely can’t wait for you to try this One-Pan Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti! Please do share your experiences and little twists you’ve added to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking, friends!