Dinner

Ultimate Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet in Just 20 Minutes Recipe

Name: Ultimate Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet in Just 20 Minutes Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup Italian dressing; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 12 ounces dry rigatoni pasta; 24 ounces marinara sauce; 1 jar water (about 24 ounces, same jar as marinara); 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional for garnish)

ByJulian Dempsey March 13, 2026March 13, 2026

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Introduction

This Ultimate Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet is a quick and delicious meal that comes together in just 20 minutes. Combining tender chicken, hearty rigatoni, and a rich marinara sauce, it’s a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights.

A round black pan holds layers of pasta, starting with a base layer of light brown spaghetti intertwined with tube-shaped rigatoni pasta, both covered in rich, chunky red tomato sauce. On top of this is a layer of melted white mozzarella cheese that is gooey and slightly browned in spots, sprinkled with fine white grated Parmesan cheese. Fresh green basil leaves are scattered across the melted cheese, adding fresh color and texture. The pan sits on a soft gray cloth over a white marbled surface with some basil leaves blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup Italian dressing
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
12 ounces dry rigatoni pasta
24 ounces marinara sauce
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the chicken breasts and Italian dressing in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the chicken with kosher salt and pepper, allowing the flavors to infuse as it warms.
Step 2: Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the dry rigatoni pasta and the entire jar of marinara sauce to the skillet. Fill the empty marinara jar with water and add that to the skillet as well. Stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses over the top without stirring. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
Step 6: Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the Italian dressing for 30 minutes before cooking.
Use gluten-free rigatoni if you prefer a gluten-free version.
Swap marinara sauce with a spicy arrabbiata for a little heat.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added veggies.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist.