If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s ridiculously easy to whip up, you have to try this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe. It’s the ultimate combination of creamy mac and cheese, hearty chicken parmesan flavors, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping all cooked in a single pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. Each bite delivers tender chicken, gooey cheese, and savory marinara wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta—making this dish an instant family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe plays a vital role in building its rich flavor and perfect texture. From the simple olive oil that starts the savory chicken to the blend of cheeses that create creamy indulgence, you’ll find each component is essential for this dish’s magic.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken perfectly.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: Provides protein and hearty texture, soaking up all the flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant savory note that wakes up every bite.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful cooking liquid that cooks the pasta and adds depth.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Brings classic tomato-based Italian flavor and a vibrant color to the dish.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or short pasta: The perfect vessel for soaking up all that cheesy goodness.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: Adds a warm, herbal lift that complements the tomato and cheese.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the basil with its slightly peppery bite.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in every layer of the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a subtle kick to balance the creamy richness.
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create gooey, stretchy cheesiness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor for depth and authentic parmesan taste.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Creates a satisfyingly crispy topping that contrasts the creamy pasta.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Binds the breadcrumbs to perfection with a golden finish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A fresh, colorful garnish that brightens up the dish.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced chicken and cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally, letting the chicken pieces brown beautifully and cook through. This step seals in the juices and builds an incredible base flavor for the dish. Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside—your pot now holds all that delicious chicken flavor!
Step 2: Prepare the Pasta Base
Using the same pot, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until fragrant and golden. This quick step lets the garlic release its savory aroma without burning. Next, add in the chicken broth and marinara sauce. Bring this mixture to a lively boil to start infusing that classic tomato flavor right into the cooking liquid. Now stir in your elbow macaroni along with dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. These herbs and spices ensure every bite bursts with Italian-inspired goodness. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until the pasta is perfectly al dente and the sauce has thickened beautifully around it.
Step 3: Combine and Melt the Cheese
Return the cooked chicken back to the pot and stir to combine all the flavors and textures. Then, sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. The key here is patience—stir the mixture gently until the cheeses melt fully and blend into a creamy, luxurious sauce that clings to every noodle and chicken piece. This is where the dish truly transforms into a rich and irresistible comfort food masterpiece.
Step 4: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter until they’re evenly coated. This mixture will be sprinkled over the top of your mac and cheese, adding a golden, crispy contrast that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality deliciousness. If your pot is oven-safe, pop it under a broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until the topping is beautifully toasted. If not, simply toast the breadcrumbs in a separate skillet until golden, then sprinkle them over the dish just before serving.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
For a final touch of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe. The parsley adds a subtle herbal brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the cheese and chicken, making each serving feel elevated and thoughtfully prepared.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully filling on its own, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp, lightly dressed green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. These sides add a refreshing crunch and help balance the creamy, hearty mac and cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
You can also make this recipe feel extra special by serving it in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes. Topping each portion with the golden breadcrumb crust right before serving adds an elegant touch that’s perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings. No matter how you present it, everyone will be impressed by this comforting classic with a twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe tastes great the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the dish well to keep it from drying out and to preserve that creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish to enjoy later, but keep in mind the breadcrumb topping is best fresh. Freeze the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to restore that creamy consistency. If you want to bring back some crunch, sprinkle fresh breadcrumbs on top and broil for a minute or two, watching carefully to avoid burning.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni works perfectly, you can switch to other short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells. Just be sure to adjust cooking time if needed to keep the pasta al dente.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all! The One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe is mild and perfect for all ages. If you want a little heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the pasta base.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes! Shrimp or cooked Italian sausage can be delicious substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked through.
What if I don’t have a broiler-safe pot?
No worries. Simply toast the breadcrumb topping separately in a skillet until golden and then sprinkle it over the mac and cheese right before serving. It’s just as tasty!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, eggplant, or a mix of your favorite veggies. You’ll still get that hearty, cheesy satisfaction without the meat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so special about a meal that combines ease, comfort, and irresistible flavor all in one pot, and this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe hits every mark with flying colors. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just a cozy night in, it’s a guaranteed winner. So roll up your sleeves, gather those simple ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Happy cooking!
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One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is a comforting, creamy dish combining tender chicken, classic Italian herbs, and two types of cheese all cooked with pasta in a single pot. It brings together the rich flavors of chicken parmesan and the satisfying texture of mac and cheese, finished with a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping for added crunch.
Ingredients
Protein and Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Sauces
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Pasta and Seasonings
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or short pasta
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Toppings
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Set Aside Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set aside to prepare the pasta base.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Liquids and Bring to Boil: Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce, then bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Cook Pasta with Seasonings: Stir in the elbow macaroni, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover partially, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
- Combine Chicken and Cheese: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pot and stir to incorporate. Add shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until all the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, mixing well to coat.
- Add and Toast Breadcrumbs: Evenly sprinkle the buttery breadcrumb mixture over the mac and cheese. If your pot is oven-safe, place it under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until the topping turns golden and crisp. Otherwise, toast the breadcrumbs in a skillet separately until golden, then sprinkle over the dish before serving.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve the dish warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using a pot or skillet that can go under the broiler adds a nice crunchy texture to the topping directly on the main dish.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe pot, toasting the breadcrumbs separately works just as well and prevents sogginess.
- Feel free to substitute elbow macaroni with any short pasta like penne or shells.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
