Description
This comforting One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese combines tender chicken breasts, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, all in a single pot for an easy, flavorful meal bursting with Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
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
Cheeses
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside to rest.
- Sauté garlic: In the same pot, add minced garlic and stir for about one minute until fragrant to build flavor.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour in the marinara sauce, milk, and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Gradually add elbow macaroni, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid, then bring to a simmer.
- Simmer pasta: Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing the pasta to absorb the liquids and soften.
- Combine chicken and cheese: Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pot. Add shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese, stirring gently until melted and fully incorporated, creating a creamy cheesy sauce.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the dish and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting one-pot meal!
Notes
- Use whole milk for a richer, creamier sauce, but you can substitute with 2% milk if preferred.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot.
- You can use pre-cooked or leftover chicken to save time, adding it when the cheese is added.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.