One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese combines tender seasoned chicken, cheesy pasta, and a crispy breadcrumb topping for a comforting, crowd-pleasing twist on two classics—all made in one pot for easy cleanup.
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
Want to make it extra crispy? Transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with cheese and breadcrumbs, and broil for 2–3 minutes. Great with a side salad or garlic bread!
Nutrition
Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 35gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 580mgPotassium: 480mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 320mgIron: 2mg