Description

This creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is loaded with tender chicken and topped with crispy Parmesan for the perfect comfort meal—all made in one pot for easy cleanup!

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
3 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons butter (if using breadcrumbs)
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Cook the Pasta: In the same pot, add the uncooked macaroni, chicken broth, and marinara sauce. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Make it Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Add the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir until evenly combined.
Optional Topping: If adding a crispy topping, melt butter in a small pan, stir in panko breadcrumbs, and toast for 2 minutes until golden. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese along with the remaining Parmesan.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy!

Notes

For extra cheesiness, add ½ cup shredded cheddar or provolone.
Swap chicken for cooked ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.

Nutrition

Calories: 550
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 880mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 95mg