If you have ever dreamed of combining all your favorite comfort foods into one irresistible dish, this Easy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner. Imagine tender, flavorful chicken mingling with creamy, cheesy macaroni, all infused with rich marinara and topped with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb layer. The best part? It all cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze and the flavors meld beautifully. Whether you’re craving a cozy family meal or something to impress your friends without the fuss, this recipe hits all the high notes in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple by using straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients, each playing a key role in delivering the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. You’ll find that these basics come together to make an elegant and hearty dish that feels special but is quick to prepare.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces to cook evenly and blend flawlessly with the pasta.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken to golden perfection, adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a mellow garlic warmth that enhances every bite.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that adds classic Italian flair to the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon salt & ½ teaspoon black pepper: Essential seasonings that balance flavor throughout the dish.
- 3 cups milk: Creates a creamy, luscious sauce base.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and savory notes while cooking the pasta.
- 1 (16 oz) box elbow macaroni: The ideal pasta shape for holding onto all the cheesy goodness.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, stringy cheese pull moments.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a sharp, nutty taste that gives the cheese sauce complexity.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: The tangy tomato element that rounds out the dish with savory brightness.
- ½ cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs: For that irresistible crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy base.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used to toast the breadcrumbs to golden crispiness.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a splash of fresh color and mild herbaceous flavor.
How to Make Easy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces, then sprinkle on the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s beautifully golden and cooked through, which usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. This step creates the flavorful protein base that will shape the entire dish.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta
Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the milk and chicken broth, then add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir everything well to combine, then bring the mixture up to a gentle boil. This is where the magic begins as the pasta starts softening directly in the flavorful liquids alongside the chicken.
Step 3: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender
Lower the heat to medium and let the pot simmer, stirring often to prevent sticking. It should take about 10 to 12 minutes for the pasta to become tender and for most of the liquid to absorb. The sauce will thicken naturally during this time, creating that creamy texture you crave without needing any extra steps.
Step 4: Stir in Cheeses and Marinara
When the macaroni is perfectly cooked, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the marinara sauce until everything melts together into a warm, creamy, cheesy masterpiece. This final mix brings together the signature Chicken Parmesan flavors with the ultimate comfort of mac and cheese.
Step 5: Toast the Breadcrumb Topping
In a small skillet, melt the butter and add the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Toast them over medium heat until they turn beautifully golden and crunchy. Then, sprinkle these irresistible breadcrumbs generously over your mac and cheese just before serving, adding that satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
How to Serve Easy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
For a touch of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over each serving. It brightens up the plate and adds a subtle herbaceous note that balances the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with lighter sides like a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli. These sides help add contrast and keep the meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Serve your Easy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe in individual oven-safe ramekins topped with the golden breadcrumbs, then pop under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes for a bubbly, crispy finish. It’s a stunning presentation that feels special but still keeps things simple.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover mac and cheese will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it slightly before sealing to preserve texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Portion the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to maintain that creamy texture and avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time while still delivering great flavor. Just add the shredded chicken when you stir in the cheeses and marinara sauce.
Is it possible to add some heat to the recipe?
Definitely! Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes during the chicken sauté or mix them into the marinara sauce to give your Easy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe a gentle kick.
Can I substitute the elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes?
Yes, feel free to swap elbow macaroni for other short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.
What if I want a crispier breadcrumb topping?
For an extra crispy topping, transfer your mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish or use a broiler-safe pot, then broil for 2 to 3 minutes after adding the toasted panko breadcrumbs. Watch carefully to prevent burning!
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! This Easy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect option for meal prep or busy nights. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Easy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe is truly a game changer when it comes to weeknight dinners or cozy meals with loved ones. It delivers that perfect blend of hearty chicken, melty cheese, and comforting pasta, all wrapped up in a simple, fuss-free cooking method. Give it a try and watch how this one-pot wonder quickly becomes a favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Easy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Italian
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Easy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese combines tender chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and savory marinara sauce in a single pot for a quick and comforting dinner. With melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses and a crunchy panko breadcrumb topping, it’s a delicious twist on classic comfort food that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Liquids and Pasta
- 3 cups milk
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 (16 oz) box elbow macaroni
Cheeses and Sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Toppings and Garnish
- ½ cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter (for topping)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces along with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the milk and chicken broth, then add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the Pasta: Reduce heat to medium and let it simmer, stirring often to prevent sticking, for 10–12 minutes or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Combine Cheeses and Sauce: Stir in shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and marinara sauce into the pot until the cheeses have melted and the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: While the pasta simmers, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned panko breadcrumbs and toast them, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Sprinkle the toasted panko breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese just before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting one-pot chicken Parmesan mac and cheese.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken as a shortcut to save cooking time.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- For a crispier top, transfer to an oven-safe pot and broil for 2–3 minutes after adding the breadcrumbs.
