One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

If comfort food had a crown, this dish would be wearing it proudly. Imagine tender bites of seasoned chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce—all topped with that golden, crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crunch we all love. The best part? You make it all in one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to actually enjoy dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pot magic—less cleanup, more flavor.
• Cheesy and creamy—just the right amount of indulgence.
• Protein-packed—thanks to juicy chicken pieces.
• Crowd-pleaser—picky eaters, kids, and adults all love it.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Sear the chicken first to lock in flavor before adding the pasta.
• Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother, meltier sauce.
• Stir frequently when the pasta cooks to prevent sticking.
• Finish under the broiler for that golden breadcrumb topping.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups milk
• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Season & cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden and no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook pasta in the same pot: Add chicken broth and milk to the pot, bring to a boil, and stir in pasta. Cook until al dente, stirring often.
3. Make it cheesy: Lower heat and stir in mozzarella and ½ cup Parmesan until melted and creamy.
4. Add chicken & sauce: Return cooked chicken to the pot and stir in marinara sauce until well combined.
5. Top & broil: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and remaining Parmesan. Sprinkle over the pasta. Place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until golden.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Flavor & Texture Secrets

This recipe combines the comfort of mac & cheese with the bold, tangy flavors of chicken Parmesan. The cheesy sauce clings to every piece of pasta, the chicken adds savory bite, and the breadcrumb topping brings just the right crunch.

How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

• With a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
• Alongside garlic bread for a true Italian-American feast.
• As a hearty main dish on chilly nights.

Creative Leftover Ideas

• Baked pasta casserole—transfer leftovers to a baking dish, sprinkle with more cheese, and bake until bubbly.
• Stuffed peppers—fill bell peppers with the leftovers and bake.
• Cheesy pasta melts—layer on bread with extra cheese, press, and grill.

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
• Freeze without the breadcrumb topping for up to 2 months.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken? Absolutely—just stir it in at the end.
2. Can I make it gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
3. What pasta works best? Elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne hold the sauce well.
4. Can I skip the broiler step? You can, but you’ll miss that crispy topping magic.
5. Can I use jarred sauce? Yes, your favorite marinara will work great.

Conclusion

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is comfort food at its finest—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, all with minimal cleanup. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something indulgent without the fuss.

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