Name: One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, diced; 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup marinara sauce

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish has it all: the creamy richness of mac and cheese, the savory goodness of chicken parmesan, and the convenience of one-pot cooking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting, flavorful meal without spending a lot of time on cleanup. The combination of pasta, cheese, and marinara sauce gives you that Italian-American flavor you crave, while the chicken adds a protein-packed punch. Plus, everything cooks together in one pot, making it as easy to clean up as it is to enjoy!

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, diced
8 oz elbow macaroni
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup marinara sauce

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the diced chicken breasts to the pot and cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and browned on all sides.
Once the chicken is cooked, add the elbow macaroni to the pot and stir well.
Pour in 2 cups of water (or chicken broth for extra flavor), along with the marinara sauce. Stir everything together to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Once the pasta is tender, stir in your favorite shredded cheese (parmesan, mozzarella, or a combination) until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, then serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Garlic Bread Topping: For an extra indulgent touch, top the dish with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and garlic, then broil it for a crispy, golden topping.
Add Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the dish for extra veggies and flavor.
Spicy Chicken Parmesan: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of diced chicken breasts?

Yes, ground chicken will work well in this recipe. Just cook it thoroughly, breaking it up as it cooks.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of water or broth to restore the creaminess.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or rotini.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can skip the chicken and make a vegetarian version of this dish by adding extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach, or by adding a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.

How do I know when the pasta is cooked?

The pasta is ready when it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Check a piece to ensure it’s soft but not mushy.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works great for this recipe. Just choose one with a flavor you enjoy, or make your own from scratch for a more customized taste.

Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese, but keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may change slightly once reheated. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.

Can I use other cheeses besides parmesan and mozzarella?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses for extra flavor.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add heat, try adding red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or some diced jalapeños to the marinara sauce.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

Conclusion

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is the perfect fusion of two classic comfort foods. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor, while also being simple and easy to make. With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, and the dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Serve it up for a weeknight dinner or any time you’re craving a cozy, delicious meal that everyone will love!