Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total game-changer for those who love cheesy, Italian-inspired dishes. You get the juicy chicken breasts, the rich, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked macaroni all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses creates an incredibly smooth and flavorful sauce that coats every bite of pasta. Plus, the hint of garlic powder and Italian seasoning elevates the dish, making it irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or a cozy meal for one, this dish will satisfy every time.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add marinara sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Stir in macaroni and bring to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened.
- Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 15-20 minutes
- Total time: 20-25 minutes
Variations
- Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, consider adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the dish.
- Use different pasta: If you prefer a different type of pasta, feel free to substitute elbow macaroni with penne, fusilli, or any pasta of your choice.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the dish a little spice.
Storage/reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to cook them through before dicing. You may need to add extra cooking time for the chicken to thaw and cook properly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit of cream to help restore the creamy texture.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter if you’re looking for a lighter version of the dish.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use different cheeses, such as cheddar or provolone, to change the flavor. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free as it uses elbow macaroni, which contains gluten. However, you can use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce or stir in a few dashes of hot sauce.
Can I freeze this dish?
While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the pasta may change slightly after freezing and reheating. If you plan to freeze it, make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. Simply add it to the pot along with the sauce ingredients and simmer to heat through.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, omit the chicken and add some extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant for a satisfying meal.
What is the best way to make the sauce extra creamy?
For an even creamier sauce, you can add a bit more cream or stir in some cream cheese along with the mozzarella and Parmesan.
Conclusion
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is a delicious and satisfying meal that brings together the best of two comfort foods. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and is customizable to fit your tastes. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Give it a try today, and you’ll see why it’s quickly becoming a new favorite in your kitchen!
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One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese recipe combines the comforting flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan and creamy mac and cheese into a delicious, easy-to-make dish. With juicy chicken, rich cheese sauce, and tender pasta, this dish is a weeknight favorite that requires minimal cleanup. The mozzarella and Parmesan blend gives the sauce a rich, velvety texture, making it irresistible for cheese lovers. Perfect for busy evenings, it’s a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add marinara sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Stir in the macaroni and bring to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened.
- Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Notes
- If using frozen chicken, make sure to cook it through before dicing. Additional cooking time may be needed for thawing.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk-butter mixture.
- This dish can be made vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding extra vegetables.
- To add a bit of heat, try sprinkling red pepper flakes or adding hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
