1. Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta
In the same pot, add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, marinara sauce, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
Add the pasta and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened.
3. Add the Chicken and Cheese
Stir the cooked chicken back into the pot.
Add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.
4. Toast the Breadcrumbs (Optional)
In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
Add 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs and toast until golden brown. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese before serving.
5. Serve and Garnish
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy this cheesy, hearty meal straight from the pot!
Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
Choose the Right Pasta: Short, sturdy pasta like elbow, rotini, or penne works best to hold the sauce.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Stir frequently and check for doneness to avoid mushy pasta.
Customize the Cheese: Swap in provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
Variations to Try
Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese: Add a splash of buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.
Extra Crispy Topping: Broil the finished dish with breadcrumbs and cheese for a golden crust.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
FAQs About One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
1. Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly. Add it during the final step to warm through.
2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be slightly less creamy.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended as the pasta may become mushy, and the cheese sauce might separate when reheated.
5. What’s the best way to toast breadcrumbs?
For an extra-crispy topping, toast the breadcrumbs in butter or olive oil and sprinkle them over the mac and cheese just before serving.
Conclusion
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that combines the best of Italian and American comfort foods. With its hearty flavors and simple cleanup, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
So grab your skillet, get cooking, and enjoy this ultimate comfort food straight from your stovetop!
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