Cooking Crispy Chicken Parm Mac and Cheese: The Process

• Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
• In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add the chopped turkey bacon and cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Drain any excess grease on paper towels.
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, chicken, turkey bacon, and 2 cups marinara sauce. Stir in 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese and 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese until evenly mixed.
• Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy crust.
• Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
• Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!