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
Scale
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
