If there’s one comfort food that never fails to please a crowd, it’s Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese. Imagine tender pieces of juicy chicken, swirls of perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxuriously creamy sauce that’s loaded with the punchy flavor of Parmesan and garlic. This dish wraps all your favorites into one cheesy, irresistible meal. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or need a guaranteed hit for your next potluck, Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is your ticket to pure, comforting bliss.

Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is delightfully straightforward, but every ingredient pulls its weight to create layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each component works together to make Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese the ultimate comfort food experience.

Elbow macaroni or small pasta shells (12 ounces): These classic shapes hold onto the creamy sauce for maximum cheesiness in every bite.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps develop the base of the sauce.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Gives a subtle fruity note and prevents the butter from burning.
Garlic, minced (3 cloves): The star aromatic, bringing bold, savory flavor that defines this dish.
Cooked chicken, shredded or diced (2 cups): A great use for leftover or rotisserie chicken, making the meal hearty and satisfying.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency.
Whole milk (2 cups): Gives body and silkiness to the cheese sauce.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Lends an extra level of decadence for ultra-creamy results.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts beautifully and adds gooey stretch to every forkful.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Provides sharp, nutty flavor and that signature cheesy edge.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Doubles down on garlicky goodness, infusing the sauce with depth.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors into balance.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a touch of gentle heat and rounds out the flavor profile.
Chopped parsley (for garnish): Offers a fresh, vibrant pop of color that brightens the finished dish.

How to Make Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in your elbow macaroni or shells and cook them until just al dente, following the package directions. Be careful not to overcook; you want the pasta to hold up beautifully once it’s swimming in cheesy sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside—you’ll need it soon!

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. When the butter is melted and starting to foam, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute, just until the garlic is fragrant—don’t let it brown, or it might turn bitter. This step infuses the fat with garlicky aroma, setting the stage for a flavorful sauce.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and stir constantly for about a minute. This creates a roux, which thickens your sauce and ensures it’s perfectly smooth. It’s a small step with a big payoff—no one wants a lumpy mac and cheese!

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Slowly whisk in the whole milk followed by the heavy cream, making sure to whisk out any lumps. Let the mixture cook, whisking often, until it’s slightly thickened—this should take around 3 to 4 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready for the cheese.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Keep stirring until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is velvety smooth. You’ll notice the sauce thicken further and turn beautifully glossy—it’s hard to resist sneaking a taste at this stage!

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta right into the skillet with your luscious cheese sauce. Gently stir until everything is well coated and heated through. Every noodle and piece of chicken should be wrapped in that creamy, garlicky, cheesy goodness. Serve immediately, topped with a shower of chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

How to Serve Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

For the prettiest presentation and an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle your Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese with freshly chopped parsley. A dusting of extra Parmesan or a tiny drizzle of olive oil can take things up a notch. If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a gentle kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

While this dish is a showstopper on its own, it loves company! Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness, or serve with roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. For a cozy touch, warm crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of that cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Hosting a dinner party? Bake your Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins and top with buttery breadcrumbs for a golden crunch. For family style, offer it in a big, rustic casserole dish at the center of the table. Or, for a fun twist, scoop mac and cheese into hollowed-out bread bowls—kids and adults alike will love this playful, edible serving vessel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before storing, and consider dividing it into single-serve portions for easy lunches or quick dinners during the week.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze this dish, cool it completely and transfer to a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped baking dish. It will keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, but a good stir will bring it back together.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm portions on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce as needed. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each interval. If reheating a large batch, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until hot throughout.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni and small shells are classic choices for Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese, feel free to swap in penne, rotini, or even fusilli—just aim for a shape that holds sauce well.

What’s the best chicken to use?

Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for busy nights, but any leftover cooked chicken (even grilled or poached) works great. Just be sure it’s seasoned and diced or shredded for even distribution in the dish.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed spinach when you add the pasta and chicken for extra color and nutrition. The mild, creamy sauce pairs well with almost any veggie.

How do I make the top crispy?

To add a golden, crunchy topping, pour the finished mac and cheese into a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and a little more Parmesan, and bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and crisp on top.

Is Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy, cheesy sauce and mild chicken make this a hit with kids of all ages. If your crew is sensitive to garlic, you can reduce the amount of fresh and powdered garlic to taste.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a bubbling skillet of Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese—it’s cozy, satisfying, and always brings people together around the table. Give this recipe a try the next time you’re craving comfort food with a gourmet twist, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to weeknight dinner!

Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

4.6 from 13 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese combines tender cooked chicken, rich cheeses, and a garlicky sauce over perfectly cooked pasta for a comforting and delicious meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

12 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta shells

Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Protein

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

Garnish

Chopped parsley

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni or small pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Make Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to form a roux that will thicken the sauce.
Add Dairy: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk as the mixture heats. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Add Cheese and Seasonings: Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is smooth.
Combine with Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently so everything is well coated and heated through.
Serve: Serve the mac and cheese warm, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.