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Before diving into the cooking process, let’s quickly recap the key ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful Cheesy Chicken Parm Pasta Skillet: - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan brings a nutty flavor and a delightful salty kick. - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: These fragrant leaves not only add color but also a fresh flavor that brightens the dish. - Red pepper flakes (optional): If you enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can take the flavor up a notch.

Chicken Parm Pasta Skillet with Mozzarella

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Chicken Parm Pasta Skillet! This one-pan dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and rich marinara sauce, all topped with melty mozzarella for a truly satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this easy-to-make recipe will fill your home with nostalgia and warm aromas. Enjoy a taste of tradition with a modern twist that the whole family will love and remember!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 cups penne pasta (or pasta of your choice)

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

1 cup chicken broth (or water)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 9-11 minutes or until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside for later.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, for about 6-8 minutes or until it is nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet that you used for the chicken, add a splash more olive oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for around 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant but is not browned to prevent bitterness.

        Combine Ingredients: Pour the marinara sauce and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring well to mix everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.

          Add Pasta & Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and heated through, about 3-5 minutes.

            Cheese It Up: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for approximately 2-3 minutes or until the cheese has melted and become bubbly.

              Garnish & Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. If you like a touch of heat, feel free to sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving. Dish out the hot, cheesy Chicken Parm Pasta Skillet and enjoy every bite!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve in individual bowls, and for an elegant touch, drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil over the top before serving. Consider adding a light salad on the side to complete the meal.