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Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese
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
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
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.