If you’re craving all the comforting flavors of Italian classics but want to skip the fuss, this Chicken Parmesan Lasagna Skillet Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender chicken pieces mingling with richly seasoned marinara, tender broken lasagna noodles, and a bubbling blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese—all cooked together in one skillet for a speedy, soul-satisfying meal. It’s like your favorite lasagna and chicken parmesan had the tastiest baby, and it’s pure weeknight magic on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients come together effortlessly to create deep flavor, hearty texture, and that perfect melty cheese finish. Each component plays a starring role, whether it’s the savory chicken, fragrant herbs, or the luscious marinara sauce.
- Olive oil: Provides the perfect base to sauté chicken and cook aromatics, adding richness and depth.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Bite-sized for quick cooking and tender, juicy bites throughout the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and a savory backbone when softened.
- Garlic: Brings aromatic warmth and classic Italian flair in every mouthful.
- Marinara sauce: The rich, tomatoey heart of this dish that creates a robust, comforting flavor.
- Water or chicken broth: Helps cook the lasagna noodles right in the skillet and adds subtle depth.
- Uncooked lasagna noodles: Broken into manageable pieces to mimic traditional lasagna layers in a simplified way.
- Dried basil and oregano: Classic Italian herbs to infuse the sauce with aromatic, slightly sweet, and peppery notes.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle kick for those who like a little heat to balance the richness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that gooey, stringy finish you expect from a great Italian bake.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor and a delicious golden crust when melted.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and a burst of color to brighten the final dish.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Lasagna Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in your bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re perfectly browned and cooked through. This step locks in that juicy flavor and sets a hearty foundation for the dish. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside—you’ll bring it back soon!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add your diced onion and let it soften over medium heat for about 3 to 4 minutes. This creates a sweet and savory base. Then add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 more seconds until you can really smell that irresistible garlicky aroma. These little bursts of flavor are what make this Chicken Parmesan Lasagna Skillet Recipe truly comforting.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce with Noodles
Pour in the marinara sauce along with water or chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the broken lasagna noodles, dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Make sure the noodles are fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles become tender and the sauce thickens—this is where the magic happens as the noodles soak up all those vibrant, savory flavors.
Step 4: Add the Chicken Back
Once the noodles are perfectly cooked, return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet. Give everything a good stir so all those flavors combine beautifully, and let it simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes. This step ensures the chicken stays tender while warming through evenly in the flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover it again and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Watch as the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden layer that ties everything together in irresistible, cheesy goodness. You’ll know it’s ready when the skillet looks like a glorious lasagna in spoonable form.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Chicken Parmesan Lasagna Skillet Recipe is now ready to be served hot. Garnish if you like, and prepare for a hearty meal that tastes like it took hours but was on your table in under 40 minutes. This one-pan wonder makes weeknight dinners something to look forward to.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Lasagna Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are more than just pretty—they add a pop of brightness that cuts through the richness and lifts the entire dish. Sprinkle them on just before serving for an inviting aroma and vibrant color that makes your skillet meal feel extra special.
Side Dishes
A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this skillet recipe, offering crisp texture and refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or warm crusty Italian bread is another fantastic choice to mop up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve individual portions straight from mini skillets or ramekins for a cozy, restaurant-style feel. You can also layer the skillet contents into large serving bowls and let guests dig in family-style—either way, it’s comfort and charm all rolled into one scrumptious experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish holds up wonderfully, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making the next meal just as delicious if not better.
Freezing
This Chicken Parmesan Lasagna Skillet Recipe freezes well, too. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the skillet in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through and the cheese is melty once again. If the sauce seems a bit thick after chilling, stir in a splash of water or broth to loosen it up and revive that freshly cooked feel.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a little extra juiciness and flavor. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and follow the same cooking times.
Do I have to break the lasagna noodles, or can I use smaller pasta shapes?
Breaking lasagna noodles gives that authentic layered texture in a quick skillet meal, but you can substitute smaller shapes like penne or rigatoni if you prefer or have them on hand. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Is it important to cover the skillet while cooking?
Yes, covering helps trap steam so the noodles cook evenly and the sauce thickens properly without drying out. It’s key to achieving the perfect consistency in this dish.
Can I make this vegetarian?
You can! Swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. Just sauté them in olive oil instead of chicken pieces and build the recipe from there for a flavorful vegetarian twist.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that enhances the sauce without overpowering it. If you prefer milder flavors, simply omit them and the dish will still be wonderfully flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Parmesan Lasagna Skillet Recipe perfectly combines bold flavors and simple cooking in one pan, making dinner both stress-free and deeply satisfying. It’s a delicious way to enjoy classic Italian comfort food any night of the week—give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Chicken Parmesan Lasagna Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A quick and easy Chicken Parmesan Lasagna Skillet that combines tender chicken, broken lasagna noodles, and rich marinara sauce all cooked together in one pan. Topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this comforting dish delivers all the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan in a convenient, one-skillet meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Pasta
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 8 oz uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Simmer the sauce: Add marinara sauce and water or chicken broth to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer, then add broken lasagna noodles, dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well, ensuring noodles are submerged. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender and sauce thickens.
- Add the chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let cook together for another 2-3 minutes so flavors meld.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the skillet. Cover again and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your quick and delicious Chicken Parmesan Lasagna Skillet!
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer a juicier texture.
- Using chicken broth instead of water adds extra flavor to the dish.
- Breaking the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces ensures they cook evenly in the skillet.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit for a milder dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
