One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
If you love creamy, cheesy comfort food with a delightful Italian twist, you are going to adore this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe. It brings together tender chicken breast, gooey mozzarella, and rich Parmesan cheese, all cooked in a single pot for maximum flavor and minimum cleanup. This dish perfectly marries the cozy charm of mac and cheese with the familiar, beloved notes of chicken Parmesan, creating a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. You’ll find it’s quick to whip up, deeply satisfying, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple yet essential, thoughtfully chosen to build a harmony of textures and flavors. From the tender chicken to the crispy toasted breadcrumbs, every component plays a crucial role in delivering a mouthwatering experience.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The hearty protein base, perfectly seasoned to complement the creamy cheese sauce.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps brown the chicken and breadcrumbs beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best flavors throughout the dish.
- Garlic powder: Provides aromatic depth and a touch of savory warmth.
- Breadcrumbs (preferably panko): Toasted to add a delightful crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy mac and cheese.
- Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto the cheese sauce perfectly.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the pasta with flavor and ensures a rich, savory base for the sauce.
- Whole milk: Creates the creamy texture that makes mac and cheese irresistible.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly for that iconic stretchy, gooey cheese pull.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the dish to classic Italian notes.
- Dried Italian seasoning: Brings all the Italian flavors together with herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat for those who love a subtle spicy kick.
- Fresh basil, chopped: A fresh herbal garnish that brightens up the final presentation.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by generously seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning mix ensures each bite of chicken bursts with flavor. Heat olive oil over medium heat, then cook the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let it rest to keep those juices inside, then shred it into tender, bite-sized pieces. This step sets a savory foundation for the entire dish.
Step 2: Toast the Breadcrumbs
In the same pan, toss in the breadcrumbs and toast them for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn a warm golden brown. This quick step adds an irresistible crunch that perfectly complements the creamy mac and cheese. Set these toasted breadcrumbs aside—you’ll sprinkle them on top later, adding wonderful texture and flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in Broth and Milk
Next, add the elbow macaroni, chicken broth, and whole milk into the skillet. This clever combo infuses the pasta with savory depth while creating the creamy environment mac and cheese calls for. Stir to combine and bring it just to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Watching this come together in one pot makes the process straightforward and fuss-free.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheeses and Chicken
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, reduce the heat slightly and stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Watch them melt and create a lusciously creamy sauce coating every noodle. Then, fold in the shredded chicken, dried Italian seasoning, and if you like a little heat, add those red pepper flakes now. Give everything a good mix to evenly distribute all those flavors—it’s where the magic happens!
Step 5: Finish with the Crunchy Topping and Fresh Basil
Finally, sprinkle the golden toasted breadcrumbs over the top of your masterpiece, adding a tantalizing crunch with every bite. Garnish generously with fresh chopped basil for a burst of freshness and color. Your One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe is now ready to be devoured!
How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped basil is a classic garnish that adds a fragrant, herbal brightness to balance the rich, cheesy sauce. For extra flair, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan can make the dish feel even more special. These simple touches elevate your presentation and taste effortlessly.
Side Dishes
Because this mac and cheese is rich and filling, pairing it with light, fresh side dishes works beautifully. Consider a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These sides bring a nice contrast in texture and flavor, crafting a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe in mini cast iron skillets or individual ramekins. This makes it look restaurant-quality and perfect for entertaining. You can also stuff it into bell pepper halves or bake it under extra breadcrumbs for an irresistibly crispy top layer. Presentation is a fun way to make this comforting dish feel like a gourmet treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover mac and cheese into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish holds up well and the flavors deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, this recipe freezes nicely. Pack it in a freezer-safe container and it will keep for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the texture may slightly soften upon thawing, but it’s still delicious and comforting.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and holds the cheese sauce beautifully, feel free to substitute with shells, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is it necessary to toast the breadcrumbs?
Toasting the breadcrumbs is highly recommended as it brings a crunchy texture and deepens their flavor, creating a wonderful contrast with the creamy mac and cheese. If you skip this step, the topping won’t have the same satisfying crunch.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! You can omit the chicken and boost the flavors with extra cheese, vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or spinach, or even meat substitutes. The cheesy base is delicious on its own.
What can I use instead of whole milk?
You can substitute whole milk with 2% or even milk alternatives like almond or oat milk, but keep in mind this might slightly affect the creaminess. For best results, whole milk or half-and-half works best to keep that rich texture.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe is mild by default, but if you add the optional red pepper flakes, it introduces a gentle heat that complements the cheese and herbs. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about mixing the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the classic savory flavors of chicken Parmesan — this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe hits all the right notes. It’s easy enough for a cozy weeknight yet impressive enough to serve friends and family with pride. I can’t wait for you to dive in and discover just how satisfying and delicious this one-pot wonder truly is. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite comfort meals!
Print
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with creamy, cheesy macaroni, enhanced by toasted breadcrumbs and fresh basil for a comforting and flavorful meal made entirely in a single skillet.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
Breadcrumbs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
Mac & Cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Garnish
- Fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring both sides are fully coated for maximum flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until the exterior is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest.
- Toast breadcrumbs: In the same skillet, add the breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and toasted. Remove them and set aside.
- Cook pasta: To the same skillet, add the elbow macaroni, chicken broth, and whole milk. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Shred the chicken: While the pasta cooks, shred the rested chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands.
- Add cheeses and seasoning: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Mix in the shredded chicken, dried Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese for a delightful crunch. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier topping.
- Be sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for food safety.
- Whole milk is preferred for creaminess but you can substitute with 2% milk for a lighter option.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and add a nice touch of heat.
- Fresh basil enhances the flavor with a bright herbal note but can be omitted.
- For gluten-free, substitute pasta and breadcrumbs accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
