Name: One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, diced; 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste

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why make this recipe

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy macaroni and cheese, and zesty marinara in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, ensuring everyone at the table will love it.

how to make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts, diced
8 oz elbow macaroni
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink.
Stir in the elbow macaroni, marinara sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
Remove from heat and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot, with optional extra cheese or fresh herbs.

how to serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

Serve this dish hot, straight from the pot. You can add extra shredded cheese or sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top for a colorful presentation and added flavor. Consider pairing it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.

how to store One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep it creamy.

tips to make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

For extra flavor, consider adding some sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
You can use any short pasta shape if you don’t have elbow macaroni.
If you like a little kick, add some red pepper flakes to the chicken while cooking.
Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.

variation

You can customize this recipe by using ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of chicken. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and use veggie broth, adding more vegetables to the mix for body and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

Can I freeze One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What other cheeses can I use?
In addition to mozzarella and Parmesan, you could try using cheddar, Gouda, or fontina for different flavors.