One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

Discover a creamy, cheesy One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese recipe that’s quick, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights! This comfort-food favorite combines tender chicken, rich Parmesan, and gooey mac and cheese all cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze and satisfying every craving. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this easy recipe is a game-changer that delivers on flavor and convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot convenience: Everything cooks in a single pot, saving you time and reducing dishes.
• Rich and creamy texture: The combination of cheese and Parmesan melts perfectly for a luscious bite.
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing: The familiar flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Quick weeknight dinner: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
• Customizable ingredients: Easy to adapt with different cheeses, proteins, or veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese uses simple, everyday ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Each plays a vital role in building creamy texture, savory depth, and vibrant color.

• Chicken breasts: Diced for bite-sized tenderness and protein boost.
• Elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds authentic Italian tang and nuttiness.
• Shredded mozzarella: Melts smoothly to create gooey, stretchy cheese pulls.
• Heavy cream or whole milk: Provides richness and creaminess for the sauce.
• Garlic and Italian seasoning: Infuse aromatic, savory notes essential for that classic flavor.
• Crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce: Brings a hint of tomato sweetness and balances the cheese.
• Butter and flour: For a quick roux base that thickens the sauce perfectly.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other flavors.

Variations for One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

Feel free to personalize this recipe to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Its one-pot design makes swapping ingredients simple and rewarding.

• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a meat-free twist.
• Spicy upgrade: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to turn up the heat.
• Dairy-free adjustment: Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives to make it vegan friendly.
• Extra greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale near the end for added nutrition and color.
• Different cheeses: Try provolone, fontina, or gouda for a unique cheesy flavor.

How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

Step 1: Cook the chicken

Heat a bit of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the roux

In the same pot, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a smooth paste. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste, stirring constantly.

Step 3: Add liquids and pasta

Slowly whisk in the milk or heavy cream to the roux, stirring continuously until smooth. Add crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce, and then pour in the elbow macaroni. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Cook the pasta

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Add the cheese and chicken

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and mix everything together thoroughly.

Step 6: Final seasoning and serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Italian herbs as desired. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.

Pro Tips for Making One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that prevent smooth melting.
• Stir frequently: Keeps the sauce from sticking and clumps from forming during pasta cooking.
• Don’t overcook pasta: Aim for al dente texture since it will continue to soften slightly in the sauce.
• Balance liquid carefully: Adjust cream or milk amounts to get desired sauce thickness.
• Add cheese off heat: Prevents cheese from becoming grainy or oily by stirring it in at the end.

How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

Garnishes

Top with freshly chopped basil, parsley, or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a burst of freshness and a pop of color. A drizzle of olive oil adds richness and a glossy finish.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed broccoli pairs wonderfully to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian rolls complement the dish for a fuller meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in small shallow bowls to highlight the creamy texture or scoop into hollowed-out mini bell peppers for a fun, hand-held presentation perfect for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps its flavor and texture well, making for easy next-day meals.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream as needed to revive the creamy sauce and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more moisture and a richer flavor. Just dice them similarly and cook until no longer pink.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, the creamy cheese and tender chicken make it very kid-friendly. You can reduce spices to make it even milder if needed.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta, and use gluten-free flour blends for the roux. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How spicy is this recipe?

This base recipe is mild and cheesy. You can add chili flakes or hot sauce to adjust the heat to your liking.

Can I use less cheese to reduce calories?

Yes, feel free to reduce cheese quantities or use lower-fat options. Keep in mind it may affect creaminess and flavor slightly.

Final Thoughts

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is truly a comforting, satisfying dish that turns simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal. Easy to make, quick to enjoy, and endlessly adaptable, it’s perfect for anyone who loves cheesy, hearty dinners without the fuss. Give it a try and watch it become a new family favorite!

Related Posts

• Chicken Paprikash
• Oven-Baked Cheesy Tacos
• Crispy Chimichurri Steak Tacos

Print