Name: Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked breaded chicken, diced (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup marinara sauce; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping); 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (for topping); Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

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If you love the comfort of creamy mac and cheese but crave the bold, saucy flavors of classic Italian fare, then Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese is about to become your new obsession. Imagine tender noodles nestled in rich, melty cheese sauce, layered with savory marinara and chunks of crispy, breaded chicken—basically, a hug on a plate! This dish delivers all the nostalgia of your favorite pasta bake with an exciting Chicken Parmesan twist, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you want a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese is that every ingredient plays a part in creating irresistible flavor and comforting texture. There’s no need for fancy or hard-to-find items—just a handful of kitchen staples that come together for Italian-American comfort at its finest!

8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice: A classic base—choose a shape with nooks for holding that cheesy sauce.
2 tablespoons butter: This is key for a silky-smooth roux, adding richness to the sauce.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Flour thickens up the sauce without tasting heavy.
2 cups milk: Whole or 2% both work, ensuring creamy, dreamy cheese sauce every time.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey stretch and classic mac and cheese texture.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty depth, channeling Italian flavors.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Subtle savory vibes without chopping any garlic.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings together oregano, basil, and a touch of flair.
Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning perks up the whole dish.
2 cups cooked breaded chicken, diced (store-bought or homemade): The Chicken Parmesan hero; use rotisserie or leftover cutlets.
1 cup marinara sauce: A layer of tangy, tomato-rich flavor that ties everything together.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping): Golden, bubbly, irresistible cheese top!
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (for topping): That savory finish you expect from great Chicken Parmesan.
Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): A sprinkle of freshness and color at the end is always welcome.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Al dente is the goal, since it will bake further and soak up all that tasty sauce. Drain the noodles and set them aside; they’re ready and waiting for the next delicious step!

Step 2: Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until frothy. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for a minute to create a roux—it should smell toasty, not raw. Start whisking in the milk little by little, stirring all the time to avoid lumps. After a few minutes, the mixture will thicken into a luscious base.

Step 3: Add Cheeses and Seasonings

Lower the heat and toss in your mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything melts together into a glossy, decadent sauce. Trust me, you’ll want to taste—but save some for the pasta!

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Marinara

Stir the drained pasta into the cheese sauce, making sure every noodle is coated. Next, gently fold in the diced breaded chicken and marinara sauce. The result is a fusion of those Italian flavors you crave with every bite of the Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer all that cheesy, chicken-loaded goodness into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top for that signature golden crust. Slide the pan into a preheated 375°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes, letting it bubble and brown. If you love an extra-crispy finish, flick on the broiler for a few minutes right at the end!

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Once it comes out of the oven, add a flourish by scattering fresh basil or parsley across the top. Not only does it add brightness and color, but a pop of herby flavor makes your Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This dish is absolutely satisfying on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or classic garlic bread to balance out the richness. Want to add some color? Roasted broccoli or a simple tomato salad won’t overpower, letting the star shine.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve up your Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese family-style straight from the baking dish for that cozy, everyone-dig-in vibe. For something more playful, scoop portions into individual ramekins before baking for mini casseroles. Or load it into bread bowls for a comfort food mash-up your guests will never forget!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got extras? Store your Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay delicious for up to three days, making lunch the next day something to look forward to.

Freezing

Want to stash some away for a busy weeknight? Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to two months. For best results, skip garnishing with fresh herbs until after reheating.

Reheating

To bring your leftovers back to life, cover and bake at 350°F until heated through, or reheat individual servings in the microwave. Add a splash of milk if needed to keep everything creamy and luscious, just like the first time.

FAQs

Can I use unbreaded chicken in Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While breaded chicken adds extra crunch and ties into classic Chicken Parmesan, cooked unbreaded chicken (grilled or shredded) is just as tasty and makes a lighter version.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Elbow macaroni is traditional, but any bite-sized pasta with curves or ridges—like shells, rotini, or penne—will hold the sauce beautifully and create that perfect cheesy bite in Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese.

Can I make Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a one-for-one gluten-free flour blend in the roux. Double check that your chicken and marinara sauce are gluten-free as well, and you’re all set.

How can I add vegetables to this dish?

Stir in sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or even a handful of peas right before baking. Not only do veggies add color and nutrition, but they also play perfectly with the cheesy, saucy flavors.

Can I assemble this ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prep and layer your Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese up to a day in advance, then bake it off when ready to eat. Wait to add the toppings and fresh herbs until right before baking for best results.

Final Thoughts

When you need a dish that’s both cozy and show-stopping, Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese always delivers. It’s familiar, a little bit fancy, and destined to win over everyone at the table. Give it a try, share it with those you love, and let it become a new tradition in your home!

Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.5 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy pasta is combined with tender chicken, marinara sauce, and savory seasonings for a delicious twist on classic mac and cheese.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Mac and Cheese:

8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken:

2 cups cooked breaded chicken, diced (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (for topping)
Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, stir in flour, then gradually add milk. Stir in cheeses, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine ingredients: Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, then fold in diced chicken and marinara sauce. Transfer to a baking dish.
Bake: Top with additional cheeses and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.