📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This step is crucial to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup later.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. You want the pasta to be firm enough to hold its shape during baking.
3. Drain the pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well in a colander. Set aside.
4. Prepare the chicken: If using pre-cooked chicken, skip to the next step. If using raw chicken breasts, cut them into bite-sized pieces and cook them in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and browned. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
5. Make the cheese sauce: In the same skillet (or a clean one), melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms. This is your roux, and it's essential for thickening the sauce.
6. Add milk and cream: Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Then, reduce the heat to low.
7. Incorporate the cheese: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a luscious cheese sauce.
8. Season the sauce: Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed to suit your preferences. Don't be afraid to be generous with the spices!
9. Combine ingredients: Add the cooked macaroni pasta and the cooked chicken pieces to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the cheesy goodness.
10. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
11. Add marinara sauce: Dollop spoonfuls of marinara sauce over the top of the macaroni and cheese. Use a knife or spoon to gently swirl the marinara sauce into the cheese sauce, creating a marbled effect.
12. Top with breadcrumbs: In a small mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese. This will create a crispy, golden crust during baking.
13. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the macaroni and cheese is heated through, the sauce is bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
14. Broil (optional): For an extra golden and crispy topping, broil the macaroni and cheese for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
15. Let it cool slightly: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.
16. Serve and enjoy: Serve the Chicken Parmesan Mac and Cheese hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish!