Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers a delightful balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with the savory depth of garlic and Parmesan. The addition of seasoned chicken adds protein and flavor, making it a satisfying main course. It's a one-pan meal that's both easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd.

Ingredients

• 12 oz elbow macaroni

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

5. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Continue stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.

7. Add the cooked macaroni and chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine and coat evenly with the sauce.

8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy version.

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.

• Cheese Blend: Incorporate other cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce to introduce some heat.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Omit the chicken and add sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella or Parmesan with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk while reheating and stir until the desired consistency is reached.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of combining the pasta and sauce. Store in the refrigerator and bake when ready to serve.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, cook it longer over medium heat, allowing it to reduce and reach the desired consistency.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?

This mac and cheese pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

How do I make the dish creamier?

For a creamier texture, use whole milk or add a bit of cream to the sauce.

Conclusion

Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful and satisfying meal that combines the comfort of mac and cheese with the savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan. Whether you're feeding a family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness, it's a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.

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Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

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A comforting and flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese with tender chicken, rich cheeses, and a creamy garlic-infused sauce.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

12 oz elbow macaroni

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

3 tablespoons butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

3 cups milk (whole or 2%)

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
6. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Reduce heat to low and stir in mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning until melted and smooth.
8. Add cooked macaroni and chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine and coat evenly.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

• Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian option: omit chicken and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
• Try other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for variation.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore sauce consistency.
• Freeze leftovers up to 2 months; reheat thoroughly before serving.
• Pairs well with green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
• Use whole milk or add cream for a creamier sauce.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg

This dish offers a delightful balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with the savory depth of garlic and Parmesan. The addition of seasoned chicken adds protein and flavor, making it a satisfying main course. It's a one-pan meal that's both easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd.