Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 83 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.