If you are on the hunt for a comforting and utterly delicious dinner that feels like a warm hug, the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe is here to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brilliantly combines the cheesy, creamy comfort of mac and cheese with the bold, savory flavors of chicken Parmesan, all cooked conveniently in a single pot. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture, guaranteeing a satisfying dinner experience with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this dish just right is all about using simple, thoughtful ingredients that come together to create layers of taste and texture. Each one plays an essential role, from the tender chicken to the rich cheeses and tangy marinara, making this meal a powerhouse of flavor and color.
- Olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for sautéing the chicken to golden perfection.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The hearty protein that keeps this dish filling and meaty.
- Salt: Enhances every ingredient, making all those flavors pop.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth that balances the richness.
- Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant combo of herbs that evoke classic Italian flavors.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic kick.
- Dry pasta (elbow, penne, or cavatappi): Holds onto the creamy sauce while providing satisfying body.
- Chicken broth: Adds richness and savory depth to the cooking liquid.
- Milk: Creates a luscious, creamy sauce base.
- Marinara sauce: Infuses vibrant tomato flavor that ties the dish to its Parmesan roots.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey strands for that irresistible cheesiness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty layer of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Freshly ground black pepper (for garnish): Provides a finishing touch of spice and aroma.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cooking the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through ensures juicy, flavorful bites throughout the dish. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside — you’ll bring it back later.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same pot, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This short step infuses the oil with robust garlic flavor, setting a delicious foundation without overwhelming the dish.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Pour in your dry pasta along with the chicken broth, milk, and marinara sauce. Bring everything up to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover. Let the pasta simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. During this time, the pasta cooks perfectly and absorbs all those rich, layered flavors.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Once your pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan until they melt completely, draping the pasta in an irresistibly creamy, cheesy sauce. This step is where the magic happens — the sauce becomes wonderfully smooth and decadent.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the pot and fold it gently into the cheesy pasta, ensuring every bite contains that delightful mix of flavors and textures. Serve the dish hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper to brighten each mouthful.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper elevates the dish at the table, adding appealing layers of texture and bold flavor. For a burst of color and freshness, chopped fresh basil or parsley works beautifully and pairs wonderfully with the tomato and cheese.
Side Dishes
Since this dish is already packed with flavor, consider light sides like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. A side of garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls makes for a comforting and complete meal, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe in individual oven-safe dishes topped with extra Parmesan and broiled until golden and bubbly. This adds an inviting crust that’s irresistible. You can also layer it in a casserole with extra marinara on top for a family-style presentation that will impress every guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping or quick lunches the next day without losing any of the dish’s charm.
Freezing
Although best fresh, you can freeze leftover portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When freezing, avoid adding extra cheese on top to maintain the best texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave portions covered for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway to evenly warm this rich, creamy delight.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow, penne, or cavatappi work best to hold the cheesy sauce well, feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shapes. Just be sure to adjust cooking time if the pasta shape differs significantly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini instead. Alternatively, swap chicken for plant-based protein options to keep the dish both filling and delicious.
Can I prepare this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ, but it will still be tasty and satisfying.
How spicy is this dish?
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe is gentle on the heat with just black pepper for a touch of warmth. If you like a spicy kick, you could add red pepper flakes during the garlic sauté or as a garnish.
What makes this recipe “one-pot” and why is it great?
The recipe earns its one-pot title because you cook everything in a single skillet or Dutch oven, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor thanks to cooking everything together. This simplicity saves time and makes the meal perfect for busy nights.
Final Thoughts
Cooking up the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe is like sharing a joyful moment with friends or family around a warm table. It’s easy, satisfying, and downright comforting, combining crisp chicken, melty cheese, and hearty pasta in a cozy, cheesy hug. Give it a try soon—you’re going to love how this recipe quickly becomes a favorite during busy weeks and relaxed weekends alike.
Print
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is a comforting, hearty dish combining tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one pot. With layers of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a hint of marinara, it’s a delicious twist on classic mac and cheese that’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Sauce
- 2 cups dry pasta (elbow, penne, or cavatappi)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
Cheeses and Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- Freshly ground black pepper for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil and cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the bite-size chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned on the outside and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add pasta and liquids: Stir in the dry pasta, chicken broth, milk, and marinara sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil to start cooking the pasta.
- Simmer the pasta: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the pasta simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The pasta should become tender and absorb some of the liquid.
- Add cheeses: Once the pasta is tender, turn off the heat. Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until they melt smoothly into a creamy sauce coating the pasta.
- Return chicken to pot: Add the cooked chicken back into the pot and gently fold it into the cheesy pasta mixture to combine everything well.
- Serve: Dish out the mac and cheese while hot, topping with extra grated Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper for garnish and enhanced flavor.
Notes
- You can use any short pasta like elbow macaroni, penne, or cavatappi.
- For extra flavor, use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta.
