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🍗 One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

Combine two comfort food favorites into one irresistible dish with this One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese. Creamy, cheesy pasta meets saucy chicken parmesan in a single pot—perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty, flavorful, and low on cleanup.
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Equipment

  • Deep skillet or large pot with lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Broiler (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or short pasta of choice
  • ½ tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ÂĽ tsp black pepper
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp butter melted
  • Fresh parsley chopped (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Cook the Chicken
  • Heat olive oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
  • Add diced chicken and cook 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  • Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
  • Step 2: Simmer the Pasta
  • Add garlic to the same pot and sautĂ© for 1 minute.
  • Pour in chicken broth and marinara sauce; bring to a boil.
  • Stir in pasta, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Reduce heat and simmer uncovered 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is al dente.
  • Step 3: Add Chicken and Cheese
  • Return cooked chicken to the pot.
  • Add mozzarella and Parmesan; stir until melted and creamy.
  • Step 4: Make the Crunchy Topping
  • In a small bowl, mix melted butter with panko breadcrumbs.
  • Sprinkle over the top of the pasta.
  • Optional Finish:
  • Broil for 2–3 minutes until topping is golden and crisp.
  • Alternative: Toast breadcrumbs separately and sprinkle before serving.
  • Step 5: Garnish and Serve
  • Top with chopped parsley if desired.
  • Serve warm and enjoy that cheesy, saucy goodness!

Notes

💡 Pro Tips Use rotisserie chicken for a faster version. Swap pasta types like shells or rotini for fun texture. Add red pepper flakes for heat or sautéed spinach for extra veggies. Double the breadcrumb topping if you love extra crunch!
 

🔍 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: ~520
  • Protein: ~35g
  • Carbs: ~38g
  • Fat: ~25g
  • Sodium: ~700mg
  • Calcium: ~20% DV