One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

On busy weeknights, I’m always looking for meals that come together effortlessly without sacrificing flavor. That’s how this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese became a favorite in my kitchen.

It’s the perfect mash-up of two comfort food classics—creamy mac & cheese and hearty chicken Parmesan—all made in a single pot. Less mess, fewer dishes, and maximum flavor? That’s a win in my book.

I still remember the first time I made it. The smell of garlic and Italian herbs filled the kitchen as the chicken sizzled in the pot, and the rich marinara blended beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce. With every bite, you get tender bites of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and that gooey, melty cheese that makes mac & cheese irresistible.

What I love most about this recipe is how approachable it is. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. Everything comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or even casual entertaining.

Plus, it’s a dish the whole family will devour—kids and adults alike. If you’re craving comfort food with a little Italian twist, this dish is about to become your new go-to!

Short Description

This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese combines the best of two comfort food favorites in an easy, fuss-free dish. Juicy chicken, tender macaroni, rich marinara, and gooey mozzarella come together in a creamy, cheesy sauce—all in one pot for a quick and delicious meal.

Key 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
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Tools Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

In the same pot, pour in 1 cup of marinara sauce, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

Add 8 oz of elbow macaroni to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Chicken

Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in 2 cups of shredded mozzarella and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and add ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes rich and creamy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and let the mac & cheese sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Simplicity – Fewer dishes, less cleanup, and easy preparation.

Comforting & Cheesy – Creamy, rich cheese sauce with melty mozzarella in every bite.

Protein-Packed – Juicy chicken makes this a filling, well-balanced meal.

Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings.

Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Overcooking the Chicken – Dice the chicken evenly and cook until just done. Overcooked chicken can turn dry and chewy.

Curdled Sauce – Avoid boiling the cream; keep the heat at a gentle simmer to prevent separation.

Undercooked or Overcooked Pasta – Stir occasionally and check for doneness at the 8-minute mark to keep it perfectly al dente.

Lumpy Cheese Sauce – Always add cheese over low heat, stirring continuously for a smooth texture.

Too Thick or Too Thin Sauce – If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

– Best served fresh with extra Parmesan on top.
– Pair with a crisp side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette.
– Serve with garlic bread for extra indulgence.
-Enjoy with a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a light, refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing: Not recommended, as the cheese sauce may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Penne, shells, or rotini work well, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your marinara sauce is gluten-free.

4. What’s the best way to add spice?
A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will add some heat.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best fresh. If making ahead, store the pasta and sauce separately to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid.

Tips & Tricks

– Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and texture. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
– For extra crispiness, top with breadcrumbs and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.
– Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking so the sauce thickens properly.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
Add 1 tsp red pepper flakes for heat.
Use spicy marinara sauce instead of regular.
Top with crispy fried jalapeños for a bold kick.

2. Veggie-Packed Version
Sauté diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach with the chicken.
Add roasted cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.

3. Pesto Chicken Mac & Cheese
Replace ½ cup of marinara with basil pesto for an herby, fresh twist.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Final Thoughts

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is the kind of meal that checks all the boxes—it’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. The combination of creamy, cheesy pasta and tender chicken makes every bite irresistible.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a cozy weekend dinner, or just need a comforting meal, this dish will always deliver. Try it once, and I guarantee it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine.