If you’re looking for a hearty, flavor-packed meal that satisfies every craving, this One Pot Manly Cheesy Chicken Penne is the perfect dish. Loaded with tender chunks of chicken, savory marinara sauce, and a generous amount of melted cheese, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Plus, it all comes together in just one pot, making clean-up a breeze—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without the hassle.
This dish is ideal for those who love bold flavors and crave a filling, protein-packed meal. The combination of succulent chicken, creamy melted cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a satisfying dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike. It’s the kind of meal that leaves everyone at the table asking for seconds.
One of the biggest perks of this recipe is the simplicity of using just one pot. Cooking the pasta directly in the sauce infuses it with rich flavor while keeping the clean-up minimal. The starch released by the pasta thickens the sauce, giving the dish a luscious, velvety texture that’s irresistible.
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily add extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to sneak in some greens, or spice things up with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat. You can even swap out the chicken for ground beef or sausage if you’re looking to change things up.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping for a game night with friends, or just treating yourself to a satisfying meal, this One Pot Manly Cheesy Chicken Penne is guaranteed to hit the spot. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor—a win-win situation for any home cook.
The layers of flavors build beautifully as the pasta simmers, and when you top it off with a generous amount of gooey melted cheese, you’ve got a dish that’s nothing short of indulgent. It’s a comfort food classic that’s perfect for any occasion.
If you’re looking for an easy, delicious, and protein-packed meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes, this One Pot Manly Cheesy Chicken Penne will quickly become a go-to in your recipe rotation. So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to satisfy.
Servings
Serves: 4
Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Chicken
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add Chicken: Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Add Garlic and Onion: Stir in the minced garlic and diced onion. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
Add Sauce and Pasta
- Add Marinara and Broth: Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
- Add Pasta: Add the uncooked penne pasta, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to coat the pasta in the sauce.
Simmer and Cook
- Bring to a Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and Cook: Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Add the Cheese
- Stir in Parmesan: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Top with Mozzarella: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
- Melt the Cheese: Cover the pot and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes, or place under a broiler for 2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve
- Add Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy immediately!
Pro Tips
- Cut Chicken Uniformly: Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Control the Heat: For a spicier dish, add extra crushed red pepper flakes.
- Al Dente Pasta: Check the pasta a few minutes before the suggested cooking time to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you prefer a slightly crispy cheese topping, place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes.
Summary
One Pot Manly Cheesy Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This protein-packed meal combines tender chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melty cheese, all cooked together in one pot for minimal clean-up. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, this dish checks all the boxes for a delicious, fuss-free meal.
