Clicky
INSTANT POT DINNER RECIPES

One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese

In Human Native Language – One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe

In Human Native Language – One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese Recipe

Introduction

As a passionate chef, I always strive to create delicious and convenient recipes that can be enjoyed by everyone. Today, I want to share with you my favorite one-pot dish – Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese. This recipe combines the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan with the comforting creaminess of mac and cheese. It’s a winning combination that will surely satisfy your cravings. So, let’s dive in and learn how to prepare this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Steps by Step Instructions

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s start cooking:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Add the Pasta

Bring the sauce to a simmer and add the elbow macaroni. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Cheese

Meanwhile, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Once the pasta is cooked, add the shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together until the cheeses melt and the chicken is well incorporated.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve the Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of freshness.

Keto and Low Carb Variations

If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, you can easily modify this recipe to suit your needs. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Replace the elbow macaroni with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
  • Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour when breading the chicken.
  • Swap regular breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly coating.
  • Replace the diced tomatoes with sugar-free tomato sauce.

Tips

Here are some helpful tips to make your Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese even more delicious:

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in Italian dressing before cooking.
  • Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, to the dish.
  • If you prefer a spicier version, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly in the skillet with the sauce.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese is a delightful one-pot dish that brings together the best of both worlds – the flavors of chicken Parmesan and the creaminess of mac and cheese. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in your household too!

FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Simply shred it and add it to the skillet when instructed.

Q: Can I use other types of pasta?

A: Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditionally used, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.