For the Dish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add the chicken to the pot and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients
- Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Add the uncooked macaroni to the pot and stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
4. Simmer and Cook
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot.
- Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Add the Cheese
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh basil, if using, and serve hot.
- Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Quality Marinara: A flavorful marinara sauce makes a big difference—choose your favorite brand or make your own.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pot to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy. It should be al dente when done.
- Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, diced tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Switch Up the Protein: Substitute chicken with Italian sausage, ground beef, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Why This Recipe Works
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese takes the best elements of both dishes—creamy, cheesy pasta and savory, herby chicken—and combines them into one comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. The marinara sauce adds a tangy depth of flavor, while the melted cheeses create a rich, velvety texture. Cooking everything in one pot not only simplifies the process but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
Conclusion: Comfort Food Made Easy
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a casual dinner, or simply craving something indulgent yet easy to prepare, this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is sure to hit the spot. Its creamy texture, bold flavors, and minimal cleanup make it a standout dish that’s perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends. Plus, its versatility means you can adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your twist on this cheesy, chicken-packed pasta might just inspire others to try it too! 🍝✨