One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese

Short Description

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines the flavors of classic chicken parmesan with creamy mac and cheese. Made in just one pot, this easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights while delivering rich, satisfying flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Convenience – Minimal cleanup and easy preparation.
• Comforting & Cheesy – Creamy, cheesy goodness with crispy chicken bites.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes for a hassle-free meal.
• Family-Friendly – Loved by both kids and adults.
• Customizable – Adjust the cheese, pasta type, or spice level to your liking.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Olive oil
• Short pasta (such as elbow, penne, or shells)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream or milk
• Marinara sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, then cook until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta – In the same pot, add the pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, and marinara sauce. Stir and bring to a simmer.
3. Simmer Until Tender – Let the pasta cook until al dente, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Cheese – Stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Combine Everything – Add the cooked chicken back to the pot and stir until fully coated in the cheesy sauce.
6. Optional Crispy Topping – If desired, sprinkle Panko breadcrumbs on top and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
7. Garnish & Serve – Top with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.
• Extra Cheesy – Mix in cheddar or provolone for a richer flavor.
• Vegetarian Option – Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted eggplant.
• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
• Low-Carb – Substitute pasta with cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to retain creaminess.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cheese sauce may separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.

What pasta works best for this dish?

Short pasta like elbow, penne, or shells hold the sauce well.

Can I make this without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Stir continuously and use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy cheese sauce and mild flavors make it a hit with kids.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, but add extra milk when reheating to keep the sauce creamy.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms make great additions.

Do I need to use both mozzarella and Parmesan?

Mozzarella adds creaminess, while Parmesan gives a rich, salty flavor—both are recommended.

What’s the best way to make the topping crispy?

Broiling with Panko breadcrumbs for a few minutes adds crunch.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, but using a high-quality sauce makes a big difference in flavor.

Conclusion

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort meal, combining cheesy mac with crispy chicken and classic Italian flavors. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for family dinners. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!

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