Comfort doesn’t get much better than this! Combining two beloved classics, Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese, into a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious dish might just make dinner time your favorite part of the day. Bonus? It’s a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes and more time for you to relax.
Whether you’re a busy parent juggling weeknight chaos, a comfort-food lover, or someone simply looking for a quick, satisfying dinner, this meal ticks all the boxes. Read on for why you’ll love it, step-by-step instructions, and tips to customize your new favorite dish!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
- One pot, fewer dishes: No sink filled with a mountain of dirty cookware. Everything cooks in one pot!
- Family-friendly: Even your pickiest eaters will love the gooey, cheesy texture and crispy topping.
- Comfort food fusion: Two comfort food icons combined into one unforgettable dish.
- Great for leftovers: It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for next-day lunches or meal prepping.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Use rotisserie chicken: Save even more time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it from scratch.
- Toast those breadcrumbs: Lightly toasting breadcrumbs in a pan with butter adds depth to the topping.
- Add red pepper flakes sparingly: It’s optional but adds a subtle heat that balances the cheesy richness.
- Avoid curdling: When adding milk or dairy, keep the heat low to prevent curdling.
- Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent smooth melting. For the best texture and flavor, grate fresh cheese.
- Undercook your pasta: Cook pasta a minute or two less than the package instructions, as it will continue cooking when baked.
- Choose the right baking dish: Use a heavy, oven-safe dish to ensure even cooking and prevent burning along the edges.
- Experiment with add-ins: Mix in cooked vegetables, crispy bacon, or herbs to customize the dish to your taste.
Substitutions & Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for dietary needs.
- Whole-Wheat Twist: Swap regular pasta for more fiber-rich whole-wheat pasta.
- Dairy-Free Swap: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Yes, it still tastes dreamy.
- Veggie-Loaded Version: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to pack in some greens and extra nutrients.
What to Serve With It
Since this is already a hearty dish, keep sides light and simple:
- Garlic Bread: A crispy slice of garlic bread is always a winner.
- Green Salad: Toss together arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette for a balanced side.
- Roasted Veggies: Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts pair nicely with the cheesy pasta.
- Soup: A warm bowl of tomato basil soup or creamy mushroom soup complements the dish beautifully.
- Grilled Chicken: For some added protein, serve alongside tender grilled chicken breast.
- Fresh Fruit: A medley of fresh fruit like grapes, orange slices, or apple wedges offers a sweet and refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be just as delicious if stored and reheated correctly. Here’s how to keep your dish fresh and flavorful:
- Refrigeration: Place the pasta in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy texture. Alternatively, use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
Equipment
- Large Pot or Deep Skillet
- Mixing Spoon
- Grater (for cheese)
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
For the Mac & Cheese
- 2 cups pasta rotini, cavatappi, or elbows
- 2.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
For Topping
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs toasted
- additional grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Toss diced chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add to the pot and sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same pot, add chicken broth and milk. Bring to a boil, then stir in the pasta. Lower heat to medium and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Step 3: Reduce heat to low and stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until the cheese is melted into a creamy sauce.
- Step 4: Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine with the cheesy pasta.
- Step 5: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs and additional Parmesan over the top before serving hot.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to substitute the cheese with your favorite varieties, such as Gouda, Asiago, or a sharp white cheddar for a unique twist.
2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free option and ensure that any other ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
3. Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or sautéed shrimp are excellent additions to make this meal heartier and more filling.
4. What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from clumping together?
Adding a splash of olive oil to the boiling water and stirring occasionally will help keep the pasta from sticking together.
5. Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
It can be! Just make sure to use vegetarian-friendly cheese if you’re catering to strict vegetarians.
Craft Comfort in a Single Pot
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese isn’t just a meal; it’s the epitome of comfort food made quick and easy. It’s cheesy, creamy, and ready in just 30 minutes, with fewer dishes to clean up afterward.
Whether for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it for yourself, and don’t forget to share your own version in the comments below. We’d love to see how you make it your own!