The One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe is an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Imagine tender, perfectly seared chicken nestled into creamy, cheesy macaroni bathed in a rich tomato-infused sauce — all cooked in one pot for minimal hassle but maximum deliciousness. This dish brings together the best of Italian-American classics into a cozy, soul-satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing complicated here — just simple, carefully chosen ingredients that each play a vital role in building the depth, texture, and vibrant color of this dish. The balance of cheese, herbs, and perfectly cooked chicken really elevates this recipe to something spectacular.
- Boneless chicken breasts: The star protein, delivering juicy, tender bites that pair beautifully with the creamy pasta.
- Elbow macaroni: Classic mac & cheese pasta shape that traps sauce in every nook and cranny.
- Marinara sauce: Adds a hint of tangy tomato richness, jazzing up traditional mac & cheese with Italian flair.
- Milk (whole preferred): Provides creamy texture without overpowering the delicate cheese flavors.
- Chicken broth: Adds an extra savory layer and helps cook the pasta perfectly.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create gooey, stringy bites.
- Grated parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, nutty notes that perfectly complement mozzarella.
- Minced garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and warmth.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that ties all flavors together.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and brighten all the ingredients.
- Olive oil or butter: For searing the chicken and sautéing garlic to flavorful perfection.
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 your boneless chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place them carefully in the pot, letting each side develop a beautiful golden crust. This step locks in juices and builds that irresistible savory flavor. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and allow it to rest while you get the rest of the dish going.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Using the same pot, toss in the minced garlic and stir it around for about a minute until fragrant. This quick sauté wakes up the garlic’s sweetness and adds a rich aromatic base, essential for building the complex, comforting notes your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe is known for.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the marinara sauce, whole milk, and chicken broth, giving everything a good stir to combine those wonderful flavors. Add the elbow macaroni gradually, pressing it down so it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer; this is where the magic starts as the pasta begins soaking up all those infused liquids, setting the stage for a perfectly creamy texture.
Step 4: Cook Pasta and Combine
Let the pot simmer uncovered for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom. As the pasta cooks, it will absorb the flavorful liquids and soften to the ideal bite — tender but with just the right amount of chewiness to hold up to all the cheese and tender chicken you’ll add next.
Step 5: Incorporate Cheeses and Chicken
Slice your rested chicken into bite-sized pieces and gently fold them into the pot. Add the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheeses, stirring carefully until they melt into a luscious, creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta and chicken. This step defines the rich, cheesy heart of the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe, turning it into ultimate comfort food.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve
Give your dish a final taste test and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to your liking. This little finishing touch makes all the difference. Serve your mac & cheese warm and watch how it disappears quickly from the plate — pure satisfaction guaranteed.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can instantly elevate this already fantastic dish. Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness. A light dusting of extra parmesan cheese or a few chili flakes can add a lovely zing for those who like a little heat.
Side Dishes
This rich, gooey main pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad tossed with balsamic vinaigrette or simple roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. The freshness and crunch offer a perfect contrast to the creamy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive twist, serve the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a breadcrumb crust, then broil for a few minutes until golden and crunchy. It makes a delightful presentation for dinner parties or cozy family meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a delicious second helping.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, place them in freezer-friendly containers or bags. This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. Just be aware the texture may slightly soften after thawing, though it remains tasty.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore its creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and avoid drying out the cheesy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use other kinds of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can swap in penne, rotini, or shells — just keep an eye on cooking time as it may vary slightly.
What type of cheese works best for the sauce?
Mozzarella and parmesan cheese create the perfect combination of creaminess and sharpness. You could also add a bit of sharp cheddar for extra tang, but keep it balanced so the tomato notes stay prominent.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Definitely! The “one-pot” method means minimal prep and cleanup, and it all comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want both speed and comfort.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies instead. The marinara and cheeses keep it flavorful and hearty.
How spicy is this dish?
The base recipe isn’t spicy, but you can easily add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce when seasoning to give the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe a pleasant kick.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cozy, cheesy meal that feels like a special treat but comes together quickly and without fuss, this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe is your new best friend. It’s pure comfort in a bowl that pleases any crowd. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back again and again for that perfect combination of rich flavors and effortless cooking. Give it a try and enjoy every joyful bite!
Print
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A comforting and delicious one-pot recipe combining tender seared chicken breasts with creamy, cheesy macaroni in a flavorful marinara-based sauce. Perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner that blends Italian-inspired flavors with classic mac & cheese.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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 breasts until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the minced garlic. Stir and cook for about one minute until fragrant to build a flavor base for the sauce and pasta.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the marinara sauce, milk, and chicken broth into the pot and stir to combine. Gradually add the elbow macaroni, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer to start cooking the pasta.
- Cook Pasta and Combine: Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the liquids and become tender during this time.
- Incorporate Cheeses and Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts and return them to the pot. Add the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the cheeses are melted and fully incorporated, creating a creamy, cheesy sauce.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the mac & cheese and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting one-pot chicken parmesan mac & cheese!
Notes
- Using whole milk yields the creamiest sauce, but you can substitute with 2% milk for a lighter version.
- Be sure to stir occasionally while simmering the pasta to avoid clumping or sticking to the pot.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- For an extra crispy chicken texture, you can bake or pan-fry the chicken separately before adding to the mac & cheese.
