If you have a craving for something utterly comforting, cheesy, and packed with hearty flavors, this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe is about to be your new go-to. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken nestled atop creamy, cheesy macaroni that’s simmered right in the sauce, making every bite rich and flavorful. This dish combines the best of classic chicken parmesan with the indulgent, velvety goodness of mac and cheese — all cooked in a single pot to save you time and dishes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe is designed to wow your taste buds and fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings a unique touch—creamy cheeses for lusciousness, Italian seasoning for that herby punch, and chicken for hearty protein—making the dish perfectly balanced and satisfying.
- 2 boneless chicken breasts: The star protein that’s juicy and flavorful once seasoned and cooked.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Adds tomato-rich tang and depth, tying in the chicken parmesan flavors.
- 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred): Creates a creamy base that makes the cheese sauce irresistibly smooth.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory richness while helping to cook the pasta perfectly in one pot.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides that melty, gooey texture everyone loves in mac and cheese.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty bite that enhances the parmesan element.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aroma and a subtle savory depth to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses herbal warmth and complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for rounding out the flavors just right.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter: For cooking the chicken and building richness in the pot.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating your olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to infuse that classic flavor. Cook each breast until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, which usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest—resting keeps it juicy when sliced later.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same pot, toss in the minced garlic and stir it around for about a minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. This simple step unlocks layers of flavor and sets the perfect foundation for the sauce that follows.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta
Next, pour in the marinara sauce, whole milk, and chicken broth, giving everything a good stir to combine those vibrant flavors. Now, gradually add the elbow macaroni, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Then bring your pot to a gentle simmer, allowing the pasta to start cooking right inside the rich, flavorful sauces.
Step 4: Simmer and Thicken
Let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 10 to 12 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally—that way, the pasta won’t stick to the pot and will absorb just the right amount of liquid. You’ll notice the sauce start to thicken as the macaroni softens to that perfect tender bite.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Cheese
Slice the rested chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, then return them to the pot. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheeses gently, allowing the heat to melt the cheese into a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats both pasta and chicken beautifully. This step is pure magic for bringing everything together.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve
Give your dish a taste and season with extra salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if you think it needs a little more zing. Once everything is perfectly balanced and melted together, serve warm and enjoy this comforting, cheesy delight.
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Top your mac and cheese with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. A sprinkle of extra grated parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a nice touch of bold flavor and a slight kick for those who love a little heat.
Side Dishes
This indulgent dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty bread on the side is also a fabulous choice for dipping into the extra cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this mac & cheese in individual ramekins and broil the tops with extra cheese for a golden crust that’s irresistibly crunchy. Alternatively, scoop portions into hollowed-out mini bell peppers or even large mushroom caps to turn it into impressive handheld bites perfect for casual parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more, but the texture of the pasta might firm up a bit, so reheating properly is key to maintaining that creamy consistency.
Freezing
You can freeze this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe by placing cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Make sure to leave some headspace because the cheese sauce can expand slightly when frozen.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to the mac & cheese to loosen up the sauce, then warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring frequently until creamy and heated through. This keeps your leftovers tasting just as indulgent as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and perfect for holding onto the cheese sauce, feel free to experiment with shells, penne, or rotini depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, this cheesy, mild-flavored One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is typically a hit with kids due to its creamy texture and familiar flavors. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning if your kids prefer less salt or spice.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and increase the cheese and marinara to keep the dish hearty and flavorful. Adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach could also boost the texture and nutrition.
What can I substitute for whole milk?
If you don’t have whole milk, you can use 2% milk or even a creamier alternative like half-and-half for an extra rich sauce. For a dairy-free version, unsweetened almond or oat milk works, though the flavor will differ slightly.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta in place of elbow macaroni and ensure your chicken broth and marinara sauce are gluten-free. This way, you won’t miss out on the deliciousness despite dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe truly combines the best elements of comforting home cooking with the ease of minimal cleanup. It’s warm, cheesy, delicious, and wonderfully satisfying — perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy weekends. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll quickly become a comforting favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
- 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 One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with creamy, cheesy macaroni in a rich tomato and Italian herb sauce. Cooked entirely in one pot, this comforting dish is perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal that brings classic Italian flavors to a creamy pasta favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 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
Cheese
- 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. Cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the pot and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same pot, add the minced garlic and stir for about one minute until fragrant, enhancing the flavor base for the dish.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the marinara sauce, milk, and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Gradually add the elbow macaroni, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer to start cooking the pasta.
- Simmer Pasta: Let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the liquids and soften as it cooks.
- Add Chicken and Cheese: Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pot. Add shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese, stirring gently until the cheese melts and fully incorporates into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Italian seasoning as desired. Serve the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use whole milk for a creamier texture, but 2% milk can be substituted for a lighter dish.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- To make this dish gluten free, substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta.
- Add fresh basil or parsley as a garnish for an extra fresh flavor.
