Introduction: In the realm of comforting and hearty meals, chicken parmesan pasta holds a special place. This classic dish combines tender chicken, savory tomato sauce, and gooey cheese to create a symphony of flavors that satisfies both the palate and the soul. However, traditional recipes can often be heavy on calories and points, making them less than ideal for those following a plan. Thankfully, with this innovative recipe for One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta, you can indulge in all the deliciousness of chicken parmesan pasta while staying on track with your wellness goals.
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A Balanced Approach to Flavor: What sets this recipe apart is its ability to deliver on flavor without compromising on health. By using lean chicken breast, whole wheat pasta, and a reduced-fat cheese blend, this dish maintains its signature taste while reducing the overall calorie and points content. Additionally, the use of fresh herbs, garlic, and spices adds depth and complexity to the sauce, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.
Efficiency in Preparation: One of the greatest appeals of this recipe is its simplicity and efficiency. True to its name, this One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta requires minimal prep and clean-up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. By cooking everything in a single pot, you not only save time but also maximize flavor as the pasta absorbs the rich tomato sauce and chicken juices, resulting in a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Versatility and Customization: Another advantage of this recipe is its versatility and adaptability to personal preferences. While the basic ingredients form the foundation of the dish, there’s ample room for customization to suit individual tastes. Whether you prefer a spicy kick with added red pepper flakes or a boost of nutrition with extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers, you can tailor this recipe to your liking without sacrificing its friendly status.
A Crowd-Pleaser for All Occasions: Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is sure to be a hit. Its comforting flavors and satisfying textures appeal to a wide range of palates, making it suitable for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Plus, knowing that you can enjoy such a delicious meal while staying within your points budget adds an extra layer of satisfaction to every bite.
Conclusion: In the world of friendly recipes, the One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta stands out as a shining example of how to enjoy classic comfort food without compromising on taste or nutrition. With its balanced approach to flavor, efficiency in preparation, versatility in customization, and universal appeal, this dish has earned its place as a staple in any health-conscious kitchen. So why wait? Grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to a bowl of comforting goodness that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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8 oz whole wheat penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
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1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce (choose a low-point option)
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2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1 teaspoon olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon dried basil
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese
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Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
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Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
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Prepare the Pasta:
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In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Add the whole wheat penne pasta, marinara sauce, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
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Cook Pasta and Chicken:
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let the pasta simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Add Chicken and Cheese:
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Once the pasta is cooked, return the cooked chicken pieces to the pot. Stir to combine everything evenly. Sprinkle the reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta mixture.
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Melt Cheese:
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Cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.
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Serve:
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Once the cheese is melted, remove the pot from the heat. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
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Serve the One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta hot, optionally sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
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Enjoy!
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Serve and enjoy this delicious and satisfying friendly meal that’s packed with flavor and goodness.
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This One Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe is a perfect balance of savory flavors, hearty textures, and wholesome ingredients. With its easy preparation and minimal cleanup, it’s a convenient option for busy weeknights when you crave a comforting meal without the hassle. Plus, knowing that each serving is W-W-friendly means you can indulge in this classic favorite without any guilt. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor every bite of this delicious dish!
