Print

One-pan cheesy chicken pasta alla Norma

One-pan cheesy chicken pasta alla Norma
Print Recipe

A comforting and flavorful one-pan cheesy chicken pasta alla Norma combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, fresh tomatoes, basil, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for an easy, weeknight dinner with classic Sicilian flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 8 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
  • 3 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded or fresh mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

Instructions

  1. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside to rest.
  2. Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Add uncooked pasta directly into the tomato sauce. Pour in enough water or chicken broth to cover the pasta by about half an inch. Stir occasionally and cook the pasta until al dente, about 12-15 minutes.
  4. Combine Chicken and Basil: Slice the cooked chicken and nestle it back into the skillet with the pasta. Stir in chopped fresh basil leaves to infuse a bright, herbal aroma throughout the dish.
  5. Add Cheese and Finish: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for about 3-5 minutes until ooey-gooey perfection.

Notes

  • Use fresh mozzarella for creamier, more even melting.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; keep it al dente to prevent mushiness after resting.
  • If needed, reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce without diluting flavor.
  • Allow the chicken to rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Add fresh basil at the end to preserve its vibrant flavor and color.
  • Use a wide skillet to ensure even cooking and easy stirring without spills.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan, cheesy chicken pasta, alla Norma, Italian, Sicilian, easy weeknight dinner, comfort food, skillet pasta, basil, mozzarella, parmesan

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/one-pan-cheesy-chicken-pasta-alla-norma/