If you are craving a dish that combines the comforting creaminess of mac and cheese with the irresistible flavors of classic chicken Parmesan, this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender, juicy chicken, cheesy pasta, and tangy marinara sauce all in one pot for a quick, satisfying meal that tastes like it took much longer to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe will quickly become your new favorite because it’s simple, flavorful, and absolutely scrumptious with every cheesy, tomato-bursting bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in its straightforward, quality ingredients that work harmoniously to create layers of flavor and texture. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to add richness, freshness, or that perfect hint of Italian essence.
- 2 boneless chicken breasts: Provides tender, flavorful protein that pairs wonderfully with the pasta and sauce.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape for mac and cheese, holding sauce perfectly in every bite.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Adds bright, tomatoey depth that turns regular mac and cheese into something spectacular.
- 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred): Creates a creamy base that helps the cheese melt smoothly and coats the pasta beautifully.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Boosts flavor while cooking the pasta and keeps everything moist and savory.
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to a luscious, stringy texture that’s essential in any chicken Parmesan-inspired dish.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Contributes a sharp, nutty flavor to elevate the cheese sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant kick that lifts the dish beyond standard mac and cheese.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings classic herbaceous notes that complement chicken and tomato flavors perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter: Used for searing the chicken and sautéing garlic, adding richness and depth.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken until beautifully golden and cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and builds a savory crust. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about a minute until fragrant, releasing that garlicky aroma that’s the perfect flavor base. This step may seem small, but it’s crucial for infusing the entire dish with comforting warmth right from the start.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the marinara sauce, milk, and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything smoothly. Now, gradually add the elbow macaroni, making sure each piece is submerged in the flavorful liquid. Bring this mixture to a simmer—this is where the pasta begins to absorb those delicious flavors, making it far more interesting than plain pasta boiled in water.
Step 4: Cook Pasta and Combine
Keep the pot uncovered and let it simmer gently for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom, and watch as it softens and thickens the sauce at the same time. The tomato, broth, and milk create a velvety environment that turns simple pasta into a rich, cheesy delight.
Step 5: Incorporate Cheeses and Chicken
Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it back into the pot. Sprinkle in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Stir gently but thoroughly, allowing the cheeses to melt into a creamy sauce that envelops every noodle and chunk of chicken, bringing everything together into one harmonious, cheesy masterpiece.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve
Give your mac & cheese a taste, then adjust the salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed to perfectly suit your palate. Serve immediately while warm and gooey for the ultimate comfort food experience.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped basil or parsley can add a bright pop of color and a refreshing herbal note that balances the richness. A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish with a bit of bite or saltiness.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with simple sides such as a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. These add a contrasting freshness and crunch to round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled until bubbly and golden. Alternatively, layering it in a casserole dish and baking for 10 minutes adds a beautiful crust that makes for a spectacular presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days while still fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
To freeze, cool the dish completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Rewarm your leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to return the sauce to its creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and enjoy that comforting cheesy goodness all over again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and proper searing. If using frozen, thaw completely before cooking to avoid uneven texture and undercooked spots.
What type of cheese works best for this dish?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic for a chicken Parmesan flavor profile, but you can mix in cheddar or fontina for extra creaminess and depth if you like.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a tasty vegetarian version that still delivers big flavor.
Is it possible to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Yes! Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so watch your pasta closely as it simmers to avoid over or undercooking.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic or stir in a dash of hot sauce when you add the marinara sauce for a nice kick of heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the warmth and satisfaction delivered by this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy comfort with the vibrant flavors of chicken Parmesan, all wrapped up in one easy-to-make meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience just how simple it is to bring restaurant-quality flavor right into your own kitchen. Grab that pot, gather your ingredients, and let this recipe become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation!
Print
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A comforting one-pot recipe combining tender seared chicken breasts with creamy, cheesy macaroni infused with marinara sauce and Italian herbs, perfect for a quick and satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Pasta and Sauce
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the pot and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the minced garlic and stir for about one minute until fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the dish.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the marinara sauce, milk, and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Gradually add the elbow macaroni, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid.
- Cook Pasta and Combine: Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking uncovered for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking as the pasta softens and absorbs the liquids.
- Incorporate Cheeses and Chicken: Slice the rested chicken breasts and return the pieces to the pot. Add shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheeses, stirring gently until the cheese melts fully and combines into a creamy sauce.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the mac & cheese and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty, cheesy meal!
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of skim.
- Make sure to stir frequently during cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot.
- To add more veggies, consider mixing in spinach or mushrooms before adding the cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stovetop or microwave.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor.
