why make this recipe

One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac is an easy and delicious meal that combines the flavors of classic chicken parmesan with comforting macaroni and cheese. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal clean-up and makes the whole family happy. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

how to make One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac

Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
225 grams elbow macaroni
15 milliliters olive oil
240 milliliters marinara sauce
240 milliliters chicken broth
240 milliliters heavy cream
200 grams shredded mozzarella cheese
50 grams grated Parmesan cheese
2.5 milliliters garlic powder
2.5 milliliters Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from pot and set aside.
In the same pot, pour in marinara sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir thoroughly while scraping any browned bits from the base to enhance flavor.
Add elbow macaroni and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce has thickened.
Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Return cooked chicken and add Italian seasoning. Continue stirring until sauce is smooth and creamy.
Remove the pot from heat. Allow the mac and cheese to rest for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

how to serve One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac

Serve One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac warm straight from the pot. You can sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs on top for added flavor. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

how to store One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish will stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat it, simply reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

tips to make One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac

For extra flavor, you can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers while cooking the chicken.
Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to get all the tasty bits mixed in with the sauce.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste; if you like it a little spicier, you can add some red pepper flakes.

variation

You can easily customize this dish by substituting the chicken with cooked sausage or turkey for a different protein. You can also swap out the elbow macaroni for other types of pasta like penne or fusilli.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will need to be cooked longer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor.

3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac can be made ahead of time and stored for later. Just reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy!