Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

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Few dishes capture the essence of comfort food quite like Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese. This recipe takes the classic macaroni and cheese everyone loves and elevates it with tender garlic-seasoned chicken, rich Parmesan cheese, and a velvety homemade sauce. It’s indulgent, filling, and surprisingly easy to make at home using simple pantry staples.

Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or meal prep, this creamy chicken mac and cheese delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the high cost. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and mozzarella creates a smooth, savory sauce that coats every bite of pasta and chicken beautifully. If you are searching for an easy homemade mac and cheese recipe with protein, this one checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy cheese sauce made completely from scratch
• Tender garlic-seasoned chicken adds protein and heartiness
• Uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients
• Family-friendly and perfect for leftovers
• Customizable with different cheeses or vegetables
• Ideal for meal prep and make-ahead meals

Ingredients Breakdown

Understanding the purpose of each ingredient helps ensure the best results:

• Elbow macaroni: A classic pasta shape that holds creamy sauces well and cooks evenly.
• Olive oil: Used to cook the chicken, adding flavor while preventing sticking.
• Chicken breast: Lean, tender protein that makes this mac and cheese more filling and balanced.
• Garlic powder: Enhances the chicken with savory depth before it enters the sauce.
• Butter: Forms the base of the roux, creating richness and structure for the cheese sauce.
• Fresh garlic: Adds bold, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with Parmesan cheese.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Milk: Whole milk provides the richest texture, but 2% also works well.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts easily and creates a stretchy, creamy texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor and depth to the sauce.
• Italian seasoning: Brings subtle herb notes that complement the garlic and cheese.

Tips and Tricks

• Grate cheese fresh: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
• Cook pasta al dente: Slightly firm pasta prevents mushiness when mixed with sauce.
• Whisk constantly: This avoids lumps when thickening the milk sauce.
• Season gradually: Parmesan is salty, so taste before adding extra salt.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit briefly thickens the sauce naturally.

Variations and Customizations

1. Cheese swaps: Try cheddar, Gruyere, or fontina for different flavor profiles.
2. Vegetable add-ins: Peas, spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms blend beautifully.
3. Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
4. Baked mac and cheese: Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden.
5. Lighter option: Use half mozzarella and half reduced-fat cheese.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad for balance
• Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Add roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts
• Enjoy with iced tea or sparkling water for a complete meal

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Popular Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare fully, store in the refrigerator, and reheat gently before serving.

What milk works best?
Whole milk creates the creamiest sauce, but 2% milk is a good alternative.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Simply skip cooking the chicken and add shredded rotisserie chicken directly to the sauce.

Caroline

Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is ultra-creamy, rich, and packed with tender chicken, garlic, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a comforting, flavor-loaded dinner the whole family will love.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 610

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Equipment

• large pot for pasta
• Large skillet
• whisk
• measuring cups and spoons
• wooden spoon or spatula

Method

 

1. Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook until golden and fully cooked, then remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Reduce heat and stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning until smooth and creamy.
5. Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce, stirring until evenly coated. Let sit for a few minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

Notes

Add vegetables like peas or spinach for extra nutrition. Reheat leftovers with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy. This recipe also freezes well in individual portions for easy meals.

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