Skillet-Baked Chicken Parmesan and Penne

Chicken Parmesan is a bona fide crowd-pleaser, but it can be time-consuming and requires multiple pans. However, with this recipe, you can enjoy a delicious chicken Parmesan dinner, complete with pasta and sauce, in less than 30 minutes using just a skillet. By starting with frozen breaded chicken cutlets and incorporating canned fire-roasted tomatoes, this dish comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor. The addition of chicken broth to the sauce adds savory depth, and the use of penne pasta ensures a perfect pairing with the chicken. Let’s get started!

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound frozen breaded boneless chicken breasts
• 1 (28-ounce) can of whole peeled fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh oregano or ¼ teaspoon dried
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper
• 2 cups water
• 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 12 ounces (3¾ cups) penne
• 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated (1 cup)
• 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 cup)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil

PREPARATIONS:

1. Bake chicken according to package instructions. Let chicken cool slightly, then slice into ½-inch-thick strips.
2. Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 475 degrees.
3. Pulse tomatoes in a food processor until coarsely ground and no large pieces remain.
4. In a 12-inch oven-safe nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, and salt. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Stir in processed tomatoes, water, 1 cup chicken broth, and penne. Cover and cook at a vigorous simmer, stirring often, until pasta is tender, approximately 15 to 18 minutes.
6. Stir in the remaining ½ cup chicken broth and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Scatter sliced chicken evenly over the top and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake until the cheese has melted and the chicken is crisp, approximately 5 to 10 minutes.
9. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and serve.

YIELD:

• This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Make sure to adjust the oven rack to the middle position before preheating the oven.
• When baking the chicken, follow the package instructions for accurate cooking times.
• Use an oven-safe nonstick skillet to ensure a safe and convenient transition from stovetop to oven.

TIPS:

• For a spicier kick, add extra red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
• You can substitute the penne pasta with other shapes, but keep in mind that their cup measurements may vary.
• Serve this dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

• Calories: 560
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 37g
• Sodium: 900mg

In conclusion, this skillet-baked Chicken Parmesan with pasta and sauce is a quick and convenient way to enjoy a classic Italian-American dish without the hassle of multiple pans and a long cooking time. By using frozen breaded chicken cutlets and a skillet, you can have a flavorful and satisfying meal on the table in less than 30 minutes. The combination of fire-roasted tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and Parmesan creates a robust and delicious sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken and penne pasta. With a sprinkle of melted mozzarella and fresh basil, each bite is a delightful harmony of flavors. This recipe is a winner for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting and delicious meal.