Imagine the rich, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese combined with the crispy, flavorful bite of chicken Parmesan—all in a single pot! One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is the perfect blend of comfort food classics, bringing together creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and crispy, breaded chicken in one easy dish.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, requiring minimal cleanup and just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this hearty dish will satisfy all cravings while cutting down on cooking time. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love!
If you love this recipe, be sure to check out our Oven-Baked Tomato Basil Pasta in a Velvety Cream Sauce for another simple yet satisfying dinner idea.
Ingredients for One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Learn how to choose the best Parmesan cheese for cooking.
How to Make One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Dredge each piece in flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and coat with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook the breaded chicken pieces for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- In the same pot, add the chicken broth, milk, and marinara sauce.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, and red pepper flakes.
- Bring to a simmer, then add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened into a sauce (about 10-12 minutes).
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Chicken
- Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Fold in the crispy chicken pieces, stirring gently to coat them in the cheesy sauce.
- Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes to thicken.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Garnish with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Pair this dish with Homemade Garlic Bread for a complete meal!
Expert Tips for Perfect One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
- Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always use freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan for the best creamy texture.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Since the pasta continues to cook in the residual heat, remove it from the stove when it’s slightly al dente.
- Crispy Chicken Hack: If you love extra crispy chicken, bake the breaded chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of pan-frying.
- Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
For more pasta cooking tips, check out Smoked Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions About One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute gluten-free pasta, use cornstarch instead of flour for dredging, and opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, shred it and stir it in during the final step.
What’s the best pasta shape to use?
Elbow macaroni works great, but penne, rotini, or shell pasta also hold the cheesy sauce well.
How can I add more veggies?
Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms while cooking the pasta for added nutrition.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is possible, but the texture may change slightly. Store in an airtight container and reheat with extra milk to restore creaminess.
Closing Thoughts
One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup, offering a rich, cheesy, and satisfying meal in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners, this dish is as delicious as it is convenient.
If you tried this recipe, let us know in the comments! Share your version by tagging us on Instagram with #RecipeClassic.
Looking for more easy one-pot meals? Try our Ooey-Gooey Cream Cheese Corn Bake a next!