Simple One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta with a Rich Tomato Sauce

Looking for a delicious, comforting meal that’s both easy to make and Weight Watchers-friendly? One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the answer! This simple, yet flavorful dish brings all the classic elements of chicken parmesan—crispy chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese—into a one-pot meal that saves you time and effort in the kitchen. Plus, it’s lightened up for those following the Weight Watchers program, so you can enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal without guilt.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (look for a low-sugar, low-sodium version)
• 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 8 oz uncooked whole wheat penne pasta
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano during cooking.
2. Once the chicken is cooked through and browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.

Sauté the Garlic

1. In the same pot, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
2. Stir in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits from the chicken.

Cook the Pasta

1. Add the uncooked pasta to the pot and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, about 9-11 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Once the pasta is cooked al dente, stir in the cooked chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened.

Serve and Garnish

1. Serve the pasta in bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color.
2. If desired, sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: 33g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 5g
• WW Points: ~7 (based on the use of whole wheat pasta and part-skim cheese)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze! No need for multiple pans and dishes—just cook, serve, and enjoy.
2. Weight Watchers-Friendly: This recipe is lightened up with whole wheat pasta and part-skim cheese, so you can enjoy the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan without the extra points.
3. Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste—add more vegetables, like spinach or zucchini, or switch up the type of cheese you use for different flavor profiles.
4. Family-Friendly: Everyone in the family will love this dish, making it a great option for weeknight dinners. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy, saucy pasta!

Tips for Success

• For Extra Flavor: Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a little heat and extra herbs.
• Make It Veggie-Friendly: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a healthy veggie boost.
• Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover cooked chicken, this dish can be made even faster by using pre-cooked chicken to skip the browning step.
• Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your pasta while it cooks. If the liquid evaporates too quickly, just add a splash more broth or water to keep everything saucy.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair this dish with a simple side salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to keep the meal fresh and balanced.
• Garlic Bread: If you’re craving a bit of extra indulgence, serve with a slice of Weight Watchers-friendly garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
• Roasted Veggies: Roasted Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or carrots make a wonderful and healthy side that complements the rich flavors of the pasta.

This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a winner when it comes to easy, delicious, and healthy meals. With the cheesy, saucy goodness of chicken parmesan in a quick, one-pot format, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you want comfort food without the hassle. Plus, it’s a great way to stick to your Weight Watchers goals without sacrificing flavor!