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One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
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One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort meal combining tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, and elbow macaroni in a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy, all-in-one dish blends Italian flavors with classic mac & cheese, offering convenience, family appeal, and customizable options.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Pasta

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

Sauce and Dairy

  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated recommended)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (freshly shredded recommended)

Seasonings and Others

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from pot and set aside to rest.
  2. Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté briefly (about 30 seconds) until fragrant. Pour in marinara sauce and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, forming the creamy sauce base.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Add uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the simmering sauce. Stir to coat all pasta evenly. Cover and cook until noodles are tender, about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Combine Chicken and Cheese: Dice or slice the rested chicken breasts and return them to the pot. Stir in grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until fully melted and combined into a rich, cheesy sauce.
  5. Optional Bake for Extra Flavor: For a golden crust, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle with extra cheese or breadcrumbs and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until bubbly and slightly browned on top.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for best melting quality and flavor.
  • Monitor pasta carefully during cooking to avoid overcooking and mushiness.
  • Allow the cooked chicken to rest for juicier, tender bites.
  • Stir pasta gently while cooking to prevent clumps and ensure even sauce coverage.
  • Customize cheeses by adding provolone or fontina for deeper flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, mac and cheese, one-pot meal, comfort food, Italian, creamy, cheesy, easy dinner, family-friendly

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/one-pot-chicken-parmesan-mac-cheese/