One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting and satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s a one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. The combination of chicken, cheese, and pasta is always a hit, and the twist of adding marinara sauce and crispy breadcrumbs takes it to the next level. It’s simple, delicious, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup marinara sauce

• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth

• 8 oz elbow macaroni

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 tablespoon butter

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

2. In the same pan, add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

3. Add the marinara sauce and chicken broth to the pan, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Add the elbow macaroni to the pan and stir well. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

5. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and mix everything together.

6. In a small separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and cook, stirring constantly, until golden brown and crispy.

7. Sprinkle the crispy breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian version: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or mix in some chopped jalapeños for heat.

• Different cheese: Swap mozzarella for provolone, gouda, or even cheddar for a unique flavor twist.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may take a bit longer to cook through. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove, adding a little extra liquid if needed.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken parmesan mac and cheese for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I make the breadcrumbs crispy without butter?

You can toast the breadcrumbs in a dry pan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until they’re golden and crispy.

What type of pasta can I use?

While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other short pasta shapes such as penne, rotini, or fusilli.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! You can add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you want to turn up the heat.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute with vegetable broth or even water. The flavor will be a bit different, but still tasty.

How do I make it creamy?

The key to creaminess is adding plenty of cheese and a little bit of liquid (chicken broth or milk) to the pasta as it cooks. Stir in the cheese until it’s melted and smooth for that perfect creamy texture.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. Just add it in when you’re stirring in the cheese and pasta, and heat it through.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is a game-changing recipe that combines comfort food favorites into one delicious dish. With its creamy texture, savory chicken, and cheesy goodness, it’s a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, the easy cleanup and versatility make it a great option for busy days. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just feeding your family, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone!