When comfort food meets convenience, magic happens, and that’s exactly what you get with the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe. This dish delivers all the rich, cheesy goodness of classic macaroni and cheese, combined with tender chicken and the beloved flavors of chicken Parmesan, all cooked together in a single pot to make mealtime a breeze. It’s an irresistible crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table, perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, blending vibrant flavors and textures while keeping the preparation simple. From the juicy chicken to the creamy cheeses and the crispy breadcrumb topping, every element is essential for that authentic, irresistible taste.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic, adding a fruity base layer.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: Tender protein that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and warmth.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Provides a savory cooking liquid that keeps the pasta moist and flavorful.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Adds tangy tomato richness and a classic Italian touch.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or short pasta: Perfect pasta shape for capturing sauce and cheese in each bite.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: Brings a hint of herbal brightness to the mix.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, familiar Italian seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A slight kick to balance the richness.
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Creamy and gooey, it melts beautifully throughout the dish.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty contrast to the mozzarella.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Creates a golden, crunchy topping for texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Binds the breadcrumbs and adds a buttery crunch.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A pop of color and fresh herbaceous flavor as garnish.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through. This step locks in juiciness and delivers flavorful bites throughout the dish. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Combine Liquids
Using the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant—this releases the essential oils that give the dish its savory backbone. Next, pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce, stirring gently. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil, which helps marry the flavors and forms a flavorful cooking base for the pasta.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta with Seasonings
Once boiling, stir in the elbow macaroni, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally as the pasta absorbs the liquid and reaches the perfect al dente texture while the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency that clings deliciously to every noodle.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Melt the Cheese
Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir it into the pasta mixture. Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until the cheeses melt smoothly into a creamy sauce that envelops the chicken and pasta. This is the moment when everything comes together into one cohesive, irresistible dish.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Breadcrumb Topping
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture over the mac and cheese. For a delightful golden crust, place the pot under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes if your pot is oven-safe. Alternatively, toast the breadcrumbs in a skillet until crisp and brown, then sprinkle on top just before serving for a crunchy finish.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh note that balances the richness of this hearty dish. You can also offer extra grated Parmesan on the side for cheese lovers who want an added punch.
Side Dishes
Pair this meal with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a well-rounded dinner. The freshness and crunch of the sides contrast perfectly with the creamy, cheesy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins with the crispy breadcrumb topping broiled right before serving. It feels special and becomes a perfect dish for entertaining. Alternatively, scoop it onto a platter and garnish with extra fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for rustic charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making it a delicious next-day meal that’s easy to reheat.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the creamy texture and the savory flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your leftovers gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creamy consistency if needed. For the breadcrumb topping, pop the dish under the broiler or in a hot oven for a few minutes to regain that fresh, crunchy finish.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and a bit of extra juiciness. Just be sure to dice them evenly and cook until fully browned and cooked through before proceeding.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Elbow macaroni or any short pasta like penne or rotini works wonderfully because they hold onto the sauce nicely. Just make sure to adjust cooking time slightly if you use a different shape to maintain the perfect al dente texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap the mozzarella and Parmesan for your favorite dairy-free cheeses and use a vegan butter alternative. The texture might change slightly, but it will still be delicious and creamy with a tasty twist.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Yes! Adding spinach, mushrooms, or even diced bell peppers during the pasta cooking stage can boost the nutrition and add delicious layers of flavor. Just add them before cooking the pasta to let them soften and meld with the sauce.
How do I re-crisp the breadcrumb topping after storing leftovers?
The best way is to place the reheated dish under the broiler for a few minutes or toast the crumbs separately in a skillet and sprinkle them over the mac and cheese just before serving for that perfect crunch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that marries all your favorite Italian flavors effortlessly, you have to try the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe. It’s simple enough for busy nights yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. Once you make it, this dish is guaranteed to become one of your go-to comfort classics. Dive in and enjoy every creamy, cheesy, golden-baked bite!
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One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This comforting One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese combines tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and flavorful marinara all cooked together with elbow macaroni for an easy, delicious meal. Finished with a crispy breadcrumb topping and fresh parsley garnish, this dish offers a perfect balance of cheesy indulgence and savory Italian-inspired flavors, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or short pasta
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Prepare the Pasta: In the same pot, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chicken broth and marinara sauce and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in the elbow macaroni, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens nicely.
- Combine and Melt the Cheese: Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine all ingredients. Add shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt and create a creamy sauce.
- Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping and Broil: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the pasta. If using an oven-safe pot, place it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy. If not using an oven-safe pot, toast the breadcrumbs separately in a skillet until golden and sprinkle them over the dish before serving.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve the dish warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe pot to broil the breadcrumb topping directly for maximum crispness.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe pot, toasting breadcrumbs separately and adding later is an easy alternative.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
