Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese
Description:
This rich and creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Juicy, seasoned chicken is folded into a silky, garlicky cheese sauce loaded with parmesan and sharp cheddar, then tossed with tender elbow macaroni. It’s easy enough for a weeknight and indulgent enough for a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes for a kick
Optional Garnish:
Chopped parsley
Extra Parmesan
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season diced chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Sauté for 5–7 minutes or until golden and fully cooked. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet or a large saucepan, melt olive oil over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream. Cook, whisking, until slightly thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
4. Combine:
Add cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce. Stir until everything is well coated and heated through.
5. Serve:
Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Serve hot!
Nutrition Information (per serving, serves 6):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~580 kcal
Protein ~35g
Carbohydrates ~42g
Fat ~30g
Saturated Fat ~15g
Sodium ~620mg
Fiber ~2g
Sugar ~5g
Time Estimate:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Common Questions & Answers:
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh?
A: Yes! About 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken works great and cuts down cooking time.
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: Pre-shredded cheese can work, but freshly grated cheese melts smoother and gives a olive oil sauce texture.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Q: Is there a low-fat option?
A: Use 2% milk instead of whole, and skip the heavy cream for more milk. Use low-fat cheese if preferred.
Q: Can it be baked?
A: Definitely! Pour the final mixture into a baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and broil or bake at 375°F fo
r 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.