One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is the perfect combination of cheesy comfort food and classic Italian flavors. It’s an easy, family-friendly dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, marinara sauce, and loads of cheese. Everything cooks together in one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy a delicious meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot convenience: Easy preparation and minimal cleanup.
• Family favorite: Combines mac & cheese and chicken Parmesan into one.
• Rich and creamy: A perfect balance of cheesy goodness with marinara flavors.
• Quick to make: Ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying.
• Customizable: You can easily add your own twist with different cheeses, seasonings, or veggies.

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Marinara sauce
• Chicken broth
• Elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté garlic: In the same pot, add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add liquids and pasta: Pour in marinara sauce, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil, then stir in the elbow macaroni.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
5. Stir in chicken and cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, add the cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and more Parmesan, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara sauce for a little heat.
• Different pasta: Swap out elbow macaroni for rotini, penne, or shells.
• Cheese choices: Mix up the cheese by adding cheddar, gouda, or provolone.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture. Avoid overcooking to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.

FAQs

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

To avoid mushy pasta, make sure to cook the pasta until it’s just al dente and don’t overcook when reheating.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken. Just stir it in at the end to warm through.

Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.

What’s the best type of pasta to use?

Elbow macaroni works well, but you can use any short pasta like penne, shells, or rotini.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought marinara saves time, but feel free to use homemade if you prefer.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

What kind of cheese can I substitute for mozzarella?

Provolone, cheddar, or a mix of Italian cheeses will also work well.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Grate your cheese fresh for smoother melting. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can cause clumping.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers are great additions to this mac and cheese.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove with a little extra liquid to maintain creaminess.

Conclusion

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is a delicious, quick, and comforting meal that will satisfy both kids and adults alike. With minimal cleanup and customizable options, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a hearty family dinner. Enjoy the creamy pasta, tender chicken, and the bold flavors of marinara all in one comforting bowl!

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