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One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese


  • Author: Zoe McKenney
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy pasta with tender chicken in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce. Topped with crispy Parmesan breadcrumbs, this dish offers a perfect balance of textures and bold, satisfying flavors. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea or a cozy weekend indulgence, this recipe delivers hearty goodness in every bite. Plus, it’s all made in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze!


Ingredients

For the Pasta & Chicken:

  • 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as penne or macaroni)
  • 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder or 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Cheese Mixture:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (for mixing with breadcrumbs)

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes). Remove chicken and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pot, add chicken broth, heavy cream, marinara sauce, garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Add uncooked pasta to the sauce. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is al dente.
  4. Add Chicken and Cheese: Return cooked chicken to the pot. Gradually add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
  5. Prepare the Topping: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.
  6. Broil for Golden Crust: Preheat broiler. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over pasta. Broil for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes