Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe comforting aroma of simmering marinara and melted cheese often takes me back to cozy family dinners where laughter and warmth filled the air. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful twist on a classic favorite: One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese. This dish effortlessly combines tender chicken, creamy macaroni and cheese, and zesty marinara in a single pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. In under 30 minutes, you can create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also requires minimal cleanup, leaving you more time to unwind. Who wouldn’t want that? Ready to dig in and discover a new go-to comfort food? Let’s dive in! Why is One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese amazing? Easy Preparation: Toss everything into one pot and let it work its magic—no need for multiple pans! Creamy Goodness: Velvety cheese sauce coats every piece of pasta and chicken, creating an unforgettable flavor profile. Quick Cooking: Whip up this meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic weeknights. Endless Options: Add veggies or protein swaps like bacon for unique twists that are sure to impress. Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is loved by both kids and adults, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. Try pairing it with a crisp Caesar salad or some garlic bread for a complete feast! One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Breasts – Provides protein and flavor; use diced rotisserie chicken for quicker prep. For the Pasta • Elbow Macaroni – Acts as the base of the dish, absorbing flavors; swap with penne or fusilli for variety. • Chicken Broth – Enhances flavor and helps cook pasta; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. For the Sauce • Olive Oil – For sautéing chicken and adding richness; substitute with butter if preferred. • Marinara Sauce – Adds tangy tomato flavor; use homemade or store-bought; adjust seasoning to taste. • Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, creamy texture; can replace with half-and-half for a lighter option. For the Cheese • Mozzarella Cheese – Adds gooeyness and creaminess; use freshly shredded for best melting. • Parmesan Cheese – Contributes nuttiness and depth; grate fresh for smoother incorporation. For Seasoning • Garlic Powder – Infuses flavor; fresh minced garlic can be used for a bolder taste. • Italian Seasoning – Blends herbs and spices for an Italian flavor profile; fresh herbs can enhance flavor. • Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings for flavor balance; season to taste throughout cooking. Embrace the joy of cooking with One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese—a comforting dish that brings warmth to your table with minimal effort! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Step 1: Prep Chicken Start by dicing the chicken breasts into even, bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking later. Aim for approximately 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly in the pot. This initial step will set the stage for a delicious One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese that’s packed with flavor and easy on the prep time. Step 2: Sauté Chicken In a large pot, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Make sure the chicken is no longer pink to ensure safe eating; this will add depth to your comforting dish. Step 3: Combine Ingredients With the chicken ready, add in the elbow macaroni, marinara sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the same pot. Stir everything together well, making sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. This combination of ingredients is crucial for the rich flavors in your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese, so give it a good mix! Step 4: Cook Pasta Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to achieve al dente pasta, where it’s tender yet firm to the bite; this will keep it from becoming mushy later on. Step 5: Add Cheese After the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Keep stirring until the cheese is well incorporated into the sauce, creating that desirable gooey texture. You are now on the way to creating a comforting and cheesy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese. Step 6: Adjust Seasoning Give your dish a taste and sprinkle in additional salt, pepper, and garlic powder, if desired. This step allows you to customize the flavors in your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese, ensuring each bite is perfect. Adjust until the flavors are pleasing to your palate, creating a delicious balance. Step 7: Let Sit Once everything is combined and creamy, turn off the heat and let the dish sit for a few minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly as it cools and the flavors meld together. This resting time also gives you the chance to prepare serving dishes or side items to accompany your hearty meal. Expert Tips for One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality cheese for the best melting experience. Pre-shredded cheese can affect the creamy texture of your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese. Careful Cooking: Ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked before adding the pasta to avoid any potential food safety issues. Proper searing locks in flavor! Monitor Pasta Texture: Stir the pasta occasionally and check for doneness at around 10 minutes. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly off the heat to achieve that perfect al dente texture. Season Along the Way: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process. This will help enhance the flavors of your comforting dish. Enjoy Leftovers: If you have leftovers, add a splash of broth or milk during reheating to restore creaminess. Enjoy your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese throughout the week! Make Ahead Options These One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can dice and sauté the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to save time during a busy weeknight dinner. Additionally, feel free to combine the macaroni, marinara sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream, and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply bring the pasta mixture to a simmer, stir in the cheese, and you’ll have a comforting meal that’s just as delicious as if it were freshly made. Storing the ingredients correctly helps maintain quality and flavor, ensuring you enjoy every bite! Storage Tips for One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps keep the mouthwatering flavors intact while preventing spoilage. Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Reheating: When ready to enjoy your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese again, reheat in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess and prevent drying out. Thawing: If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This ensures even warming and retains the original texture of the dish. One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Variations Feel free to customize your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs! Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. This twist brightens the dish and adds a colorful touch. Spice It Up: Stir in red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a zesty kick. Heat levels are easily adjustable to create the perfect balance of warmth and comfort. Protein Options: Substitute the chicken with cooked bacon or shrimp for a different flavor profile. Each alternative deepens the deliciousness and can turn this dish into a new family favorite. Dairy Alternatives: Use cashew cream or nut-based cheese for a delicious vegan version. It’s an excellent way to enjoy creamy texture without dairy. Pasta Diversions: Swap elbow macaroni for penne or fusilli to change up the shape and texture. This small adjustment offers a new mouthfeel that children will love! Extra Flavor: Toss in fresh basil or oregano during cooking for an aromatic upgrade. These herbs elevate the overall flavor, giving it a garden-fresh twist that complements the dish beautifully. Cheesy Delight: Try a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different cheese medley. Blending in different cheeses enhances flavor complexity and keeps things new! For other delightful chicken recipes, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken, or if you like a twist on mac and cheese, don’t forget my mouthwatering Chicken Mac Cheese. Enjoy experimenting with these variations! What to Serve with One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that cater to every craving and complement the creamy comfort of this dish. Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread pairs deliciously, offering a satisfying contrast to the creamy mac and cheese. It’s perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce! Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds bright, fresh flavors and a bit of crunch, perfectly balancing the richness of the mac and cheese while providing a refreshing bite. Sautéed Green Beans: The tender-crisp texture of sautéed green beans adds vibrant color and nutrients to your meal. They’re light and healthy, making them an ideal counterpoint to creamy dishes. Roasted Vegetables: Serve a medley of roasted vegetables for a wholesome and nutritious side dish. Their caramelized sweetness and slight char enhance the overall flavor experience. Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can really uplift your meal, offering a crispness that complements the creaminess of the mac and cheese. Dessert Option: For a sweet finish, consider a warm chocolate lava cake. Its rich and gooey center will leave everyone satisfied after the comforting main course. One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use fresh chicken breasts. Aim for uniform sizes, around 1-inch cubes for even cooking. If short on time, diced rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut! What’s the best way to store leftovers? Very! Store any leftover One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To ensure it remains delicious, always allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing. Can I freeze One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese? How? Of course! To freeze, cool the dish completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy texture. What should I do if the pasta is overcooked? Ah, the struggle is real! If you find your pasta has become mushy, the best remedy is to incorporate some fresh veggies or even an additional layer of cheese. This adds texture and can bring life back to the dish! Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Certainly! For a gluten-free version, swap the elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta. If you’re looking for dairy alternatives, cashew cream or nut-based cheese can replace the heavy cream and dairy cheeses effectively. Always remember to check ingredient labels for potential allergens. How long does this dish take to prepare? You’re in for a treat! This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying choice for busy weeknights! One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for Cozy Weeknights A comforting One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese dish perfect for busy weeknights, combining tender chicken and creamy macaroni with zesty marinara. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 breasts Chicken Breasts DicedFor the Pasta8 ounces Elbow Macaroni4 cups Chicken Broth Or vegetable broth for vegetarian optionFor the Sauce2 tablespoons Olive Oil Or butter if preferred24 ounces Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought1 cup Heavy Cream Or half-and-half for a lighter optionFor the Cheese2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Freshly shredded for best melting1 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated fresh for smoother incorporationFor Seasoning1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used1 teaspoon Italian Seasoningto taste Salt and Pepper Season to taste Equipment Large Pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsStart by dicing the chicken breasts into even, bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking later.In a large pot, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper.With the chicken ready, add in the elbow macaroni, marinara sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the same pot. Stir everything together well.Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot.After the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.Give your dish a taste and sprinkle in additional salt, pepper, and garlic powder, if desired.Once everything is combined and creamy, turn off the heat and let the dish sit for a few minutes. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 500mgIron: 2mg NotesEmbrace the joy of cooking with One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese—a comforting dish that brings warmth to your table with minimal effort. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
