Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

Oh, get ready to treat yourself to a dish that’s pure comfort in every cheesy, garlicky bite! This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is like your classic mac and cheese got an upgrade—with tender chicken, bold garlic flavor, and that nutty, salty Parmesan weaving through every creamy nook and cranny. It’s the kind of meal that warms your soul and makes you want to curl up with a big bowl and zero regrets.

Trust me, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this one’s going to steal the show. Creamy, flavorful, and ridiculously satisfying—what’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a comforting lunch. It’s filling and flavorful every time.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, classic ingredients that you likely have on hand—no fancy extras needed.

Quick and Easy: Simple steps, and it comes together faster than you’d expect for such a rich, homemade mac and cheese.

Customizable: Love it spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Want it extra cheesy? Toss in more Parmesan or cheddar.

Crowd-Pleasing: Creamy, garlicky, cheesy, and packed with protein—it’s a win for both kids and adults.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients in Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

Let’s break down the ingredients that make this dish irresistibly delicious.

Elbow Macaroni

The classic pasta shape that holds onto sauce perfectly.

Chicken Breasts

Cooked and shredded for tender, juicy bites throughout.

Garlic

Fresh garlic sautéed to fragrant perfection, adding that irresistible aroma.

Parmesan Cheese

Grated Parmesan brings nutty, salty richness and depth.

Cheddar Cheese

Melted into the sauce for creamy, gooey texture and bold flavor.

Milk and Butter

Creamy, smooth base for the cheese sauce.

Flour

For thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency.

Seasonings

Salt, pepper, and optional Italian herbs to round out the flavor.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Cook the Pasta

Boil the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook in a skillet until golden and cooked through. Let cool slightly, then shred.

Make the Garlic Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for a minute to remove the raw taste. Slowly whisk in milk, cooking until the sauce thickens. Add Parmesan and cheddar cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the sauce. Stir well to coat every bite with cheesy goodness.

Bake (Optional)

For a golden, bubbly top, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Scoop into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and dig in!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

This dish shines on its own, but here are some perfect side ideas:

• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a fresh, healthy contrast.
• Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
• Garlic Bread: For extra indulgence, serve alongside warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
• Roasted Tomatoes: Sweet, oven-roasted tomatoes bring a bright pop of flavor.

Additional Tips

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by swapping shredded cooked chicken for store-bought rotisserie chicken.
• Extra Garlic Love: Roast garlic beforehand for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
• Make It Creamier: Stir in a splash of cream or cream cheese for ultra-rich sauce.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
• Freeze-Friendly: This dish freezes well—just thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use different pasta shapes?
A1: Absolutely! Shells, rotini, or penne all work wonderfully.

Q2: Can I make this vegetarian?
A2: Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach.

Q3: What cheese blends well here?
A3: Cheddar and Parmesan are classic, but you can add mozzarella or Gruyère for different flavors.

Q4: How do I prevent the sauce from being grainy?
A4: Use freshly grated cheese and avoid pre-shredded cheese that contains anti-caking agents.

Q5: Can I add spice?
A5: Sure! A pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika adds a nice kick.

Conclusion

There you go—Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavor. It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel special and leaves everyone asking for seconds. So grab your garlic, get your cheese ready, and prepare to enjoy one of the coziest dishes you’ll ever make. You’re going to love this!

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