Name: Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Chicken:; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; For the Mac and Cheese:; 1 lb elbow macaroni; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); For the Topping:; 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory flavors, it combines tender chicken with a rich, garlicky sauce and perfectly cooked macaroni. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to something indulgent, this dish has got you covered. Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how this recipe brings together the creaminess of mac and cheese with the savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan. The addition of chicken makes it a hearty, satisfying meal. The best part? The sauce is incredibly smooth and flavorful, with the perfect balance of cheese and garlic. Every bite is packed with goodness, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, and I can have it on the table in no time.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 ½ cups shredded Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

(Her’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for a few minutes to thicken up slightly.
Add the shredded Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips or cubes, and add it to the skillet. Stir in the cooked macaroni and mix everything together until the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes around 30-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Variations

Add vegetables: I like to toss in some steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
Spicy kick: If I’m in the mood for something spicy, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the garlic as it cooks.
Use different cheeses: While I love Parmesan and mozzarella, switching it up with cheddar, Gruyère, or even gouda gives the dish a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When I want to reheat, I warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce if it’s thickened too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it every 30 seconds to ensure it heats evenly.

FAQs

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, I swap out the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta option. There are plenty of good gluten-free pasta brands available that will work perfectly in this dish.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, I can absolutely use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Just add the pre-cooked chicken to the skillet once the sauce is ready, and heat it through before combining it with the pasta.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but I can definitely make the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. When I’m ready to serve, I simply cook the pasta and heat everything together.

Can I freeze Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese?

I don’t recommend freezing this dish as the sauce can separate once thawed, making it less creamy. However, it’s still safe to freeze, just expect some textural changes.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! I love the combination of Parmesan and mozzarella, but if I’m craving something different, I can use cheddar, gouda, or even fontina for a unique flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is a creamy, savory comfort food that I’m sure will become a favorite in my household. It’s simple to make, incredibly flavorful, and the perfect way to indulge in a delicious meal. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, it’s a dish that always satisfies.