Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
In the same pot, pour in 1 cup of marinara sauce, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Macaroni
Add 8 oz of elbow macaroni to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Chicken
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in 2 cups of shredded mozzarella and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and add ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes rich and creamy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and let the mac & cheese sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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