Quick & Hearty One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe

Comfort food meets culinary magic in this delightful one-pot chicken parmesan mac & cheese that promises to revolutionize your dinner routine.

creamy pasta intertwines with crispy chicken in a seamless dance of flavors.

Weeknight cooking becomes a breeze with this streamlined recipe that cuts down on dishes and maximizes taste.

Melted cheese creates a luxurious blanket over tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles.

Layers of parmesan and herbs add depth to every forkful of this irresistible dish.

Each bite combines the classic appeal of mac and cheese with the robust charm of chicken parmesan.

You’ll want to savor every single mouthwatering spoonful of this ingenious meal that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with penne, rotini, or shells. Just ensure the pasta type has a similar cooking time and can absorb liquid well.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish reheats nicely and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The creamy texture stays consistent when gently warmed.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. The recipe’s core ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

• How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce during the cooking process. Start with a small amount and adjust to your heat preference.

Why Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Is One-Pot Perfection

• This mac and cheese delivers maximum flavor with minimal kitchen effort.
• One-pot magic means fewer dishes and faster cleanup, perfect for busy families craving delicious meals.
• Flexible recipe allows adding extra vegetables, swapping cheeses, or adjusting protein for personalized dinner experiences.
• Creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender chicken creates a crowd-pleasing dish that appeals to kids and adults alike.

What You’ll Need for Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

• Chicken: A lean protein that adds hearty flavor and substance to the mac and cheese.

• Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta shape that creates a creamy and comforting base for the dish.

• Heavy Cream, Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: These ingredients provide rich, smooth, and luxurious texture to the mac and cheese.

• Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor and helps cook the pasta.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder: Enhance and balance the overall taste of the dish.

• Fresh Basil: Brings a bright, aromatic finish to the mac and cheese.

• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and preventing sticking.

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese: Directions

Step 1: Prepare and Season Chicken

Grab your chicken and slice it into small, uniform bite-sized pieces.

Sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece gets a delicious coating of seasoning.

Step 2: Sizzle the Chicken

Warm up a large pot with olive oil over medium heat.

Carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook them until they turn a beautiful golden brown color.

This should take around 5 minutes, creating a mouth-watering aroma in your kitchen.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Broth

Drop the elbow macaroni directly into the pot with the seared chicken.

Pour in chicken broth and stir everything together.

Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Create Creamy Cheese Sauce

Once the pasta has absorbed most of the broth (about 8 minutes), it’s time to make the magic happen.

• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese

Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely, creating a luxurious, smooth sauce that coats every single pasta noodle.

Step 5: Final Flavor Boost

Enhance the dish with garlic powder and freshly chopped basil.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

The herbs will add a burst of freshness to the creamy pasta.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the steaming mac and cheese into bowls.

For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle some additional parmesan cheese on top.

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your one-pot wonder!

Savvy Tips for Creamy Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

• Pat chicken dry before sautéing to ensure a golden, crispy exterior that locks in maximum flavor.
• Stir macaroni frequently while cooking to avoid clumping and ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
• Remove pot from heat when adding cheese to prevent separation and create a smooth, creamy texture.
• Chop fresh basil just before adding to maintain its vibrant color and release maximum aromatic oils.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt to control the overall sodium content for a healthier version.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Easily

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled mac and cheese to freezer-safe containers. Freeze up to 2 months. Place plastic wrap directly on surface to prevent freezer burn.
• Warm gently in a pan over medium-low heat. Add splash of milk or chicken broth to restore creamy consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Stop when thoroughly warm.

Great Sides with Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

• Pair Wine with Zesty Delight: Choose a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy, cheesy dish. Its light, refreshing notes will cut through the richness and enhance the chicken's savory flavor.
• Craft Beer Companion: Select a wheat beer or blonde ale with subtle citrus undertones. These beers provide a smooth, malty backdrop that balances the mac and cheese's creamy texture without overwhelming the delicate chicken.
• Fresh Side Salad Boost: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to add brightness and acidity. The peppery greens and tangy dressing will create a perfect counterpoint to the rich, cheesy pasta.
• Garlic Bread Sidekick: Serve toasted garlic bread with herbs to add a crunchy texture and complementary garlic notes. Its crispy exterior and soft interior will perfectly match the creamy mac and cheese's smooth consistency.

Pasta & Cheese Variations for Chicken Parmesan Lovers

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Use gluten-free chicken broth and check cheese labels to ensure no gluten-containing additives.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives like nutritional yeast or vegan cheese shreds. Replace mozzarella and parmesan with plant-based cheese options.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Swap elbow macaroni with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Use lower-carb chicken broth and reduce cream quantity. Add extra protein by increasing chicken portion and using full-fat cheese varieties.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or plant-based chicken substitute. Keep all other ingredients similar and maintain the creamy texture with additional cheese and cream.

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe

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4.6 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 23 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Comfort meets culinary innovation in this one-pot chicken parmesan mac & cheese, blending Italian-American classic flavors into a single skillet masterpiece. Creamy pasta, crispy chicken, and melted cheese create a harmonious dish that satisfies deep cravings while simplifying weeknight dinner preparation.

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Ingredients

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Main Proteins:

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound / 454 grams)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Pasta and Liquid Base:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

Seasonings and Garnish:

• 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Transform chicken into succulent morsels by cutting into uniform bite-sized pieces, then infuse with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor profile.
2. Activate a large pot over medium heat, drizzle with olive oil, and introduce seasoned chicken, allowing it to caramelize and develop a golden exterior approximately 5 minutes.
3. Cascade elbow macaroni into the pot alongside chicken broth, initiating a gentle simmer while stirring consistently to prevent pasta from sticking.
4. Monitor pasta absorption, continuing to stir until liquid reduces and pasta becomes tender, roughly 8 minutes.
5. Introduce luxurious heavy cream and create a silky foundation, then gradually incorporate mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, stirring until achieving a smooth, integrated consistency.
6. Elevate the dish’s aromatic complexity by sprinkling garlic powder and delicate fresh basil, then refine seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the creamy, indulgent mac and cheese directly to serving plates, optional: crown with an extra dusting of parmesan for visual and flavor enhancement.

Notes

• Chicken selection matters hugely, so opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs to ensure tender, easy-to-cook protein that blends smoothly with creamy mac and cheese.
• Control moisture carefully during cooking by stirring frequently and monitoring liquid absorption, preventing pasta from becoming mushy or sticking to the pot’s bottom.
• Consider dairy alternatives like lactose-free cheese or plant-based cream for those with dietary restrictions, which can maintain similar richness and texture without compromising flavor.
• Customize heat levels by adding red pepper flakes or cayenne for spice lovers, creating a personalized version that suits individual taste preferences without altering core recipe structure.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 13 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 640
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 36 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg