There’s nothing quite like a hearty, comforting dish that brings together the best of two classics—chicken parmesan and mac & cheese. This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is everything you love about both, but in a simple, no-fuss meal that comes together in under 30 minutes!
It’s creamy, cheesy, packed with flavor, and best of all—only one pot to clean. That means less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying this mouthwatering dish with your loved ones.
So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this ultimate comfort food!
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pot magic – Less mess, less stress!
- Comforting & cheesy – Creamy mac & cheese meets chicken parm!
- Quick & easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Kid-friendly – A guaranteed family favorite.
- Customizable – Swap out ingredients to fit your taste!
🤤 What Does It Taste Like?
This dish is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness. The rich marinara sauce adds a touch of tanginess, while the gooey mozzarella and Parmesan bring that irresistible, melty texture. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the pasta soaks up all those incredible flavors for a meal that’s anything but boring!
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions & Substitutions:
- Add heat – A pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Extra veggies – Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms work great.
- Swap the pasta – Shells, penne, or rotini all work beautifully.
- Make it lighter – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Crispy topping – Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving!
🥣 Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or deep skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
🍲 How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
1️⃣ Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
2️⃣ Add the Sauce & Pasta
- Pour in 1 cup marinara sauce, 1 cup chicken broth, and 1 cup heavy cream. Stir to combine.
- Add 8 oz macaroni and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
3️⃣ Add the Cheese & Seasoning
- Reduce heat to low and stir in 2 cups shredded mozzarella and ½ cup Parmesan.
- Add ½ tsp garlic powder and ½ tsp Italian seasoning.
- Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
4️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate cheesy comfort food!
🍽️ What to Serve with This Dish
This dish is rich and hearty on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, try serving it with:
- Garlic bread – Because more carbs = more happiness!
- Steamed broccoli or roasted veggies – A fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Simple side salad – A light, crisp green salad balances the richness.
🔥 Pro Tips for the Best One-Pot Mac & Cheese
✅ Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-packaged cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
✅ Stir frequently – This helps prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
✅ Adjust the sauce – If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.
✅ Don’t overcook the pasta – It will continue to absorb liquid even after you remove it from heat.
🥡 Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when reheated.
Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to restore the creamy texture.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, just add it in after the pasta is done cooking.
Can I make this without heavy cream?
Yes! You can substitute half-and-half, milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
How do I make it extra crispy like classic chicken parmesan?
Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed croutons on top before serving!
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but make sure to use a large enough pot so the pasta cooks evenly.
🌟 Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is pure comfort food at its finest—cheesy, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or when you just need a big bowl of happiness.
If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments! Tag me on Pinterest or Instagram with your delicious creations—I’d love to see them!
Looking for more easy one-pot meals? Try these next:
- One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Cheesy Taco Pasta
- One-Pot Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese
Now, go grab that pot and let’s get cooking! 🍽️🧀
