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### Instructions:
1. **Season the Chicken:**
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken pieces and toss to coat.
2. **Sear the Chicken:**
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
3. **Cook the Pasta:**
In the same pot, add the marinara sauce, chicken broth, heavy cream, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine, scraping up any brown bits left from the chicken to add extra flavor. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
4. **Add the Pasta:**
Add the uncooked pasta to the pot. Stir to make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, about 12-15 minutes. Be sure to check the pasta’s doneness around the 10-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
5. **Combine Chicken and Cheese:**
Once the pasta is cooked, return the browned chicken to the pot, stirring gently to combine it with the pasta and sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the pot again and let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese has melted and become gooey.
6. **Serve and Garnish:**
Serve the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and flavor. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese will leave you craving more.
### Tips for Success:
– **Pasta Choice:** While this recipe works with almost any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli, you can also use spaghetti. Just be sure to stir occasionally if using longer pasta to prevent it from sticking together.
– **Add More Veggies:** Feel free to sneak in some veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to make this dish even more nutritious. Simply add them to the pot when simmering the sauce and broth.
– **Make it Spicy:** If you love a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce or use a spicier marinara sauce to kick things up a notch.
– **Make-Ahead:** You can prep the chicken and seasonings in advance, or even cook the pasta and sauce ahead of time. When you’re ready to eat, simply heat it all up and add the cheese!
### Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
– **Minimal Cleanup:** Since everything is cooked in one pot, you can say goodbye to a sink full of dirty dishes!
– **Quick and Easy:** From start to finish, this recipe takes just around 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
– **Customizable:** The recipe can be easily adjusted to fit your personal preferences, whether you want to add more veggies or spice up the sauce.
– **Comfort Food:** The rich, cheesy flavors are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making this dish great for family dinners or casual gatherings.
### Conclusion:
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a modern twist on a beloved classic, offering all the cheesy goodness and flavor without the hassle. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe guarantees a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Perfect for busy nights or whenever you’re craving a comforting, Italian-inspired dish, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy!
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