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One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 23 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

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

  1. 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.
  2. Sauté garlic: In the same pot, add minced garlic and stir for about one minute until fragrant to build flavor.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.