Description Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese. Tender chicken pieces, infused with savory garlic and Parmesan, are tossed with perfectly cooked macaroni in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This decadent dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Preparation:
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Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Overcooking the pasta will result in a mushy final dish, so be sure to check for doneness a minute or two before the recommended cooking time. Once cooked, drain the macaroni thoroughly in a colander. Shaking the colander gently will help remove any excess water. Set the drained macaroni aside.
Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the skillet is sufficiently hot before adding the chicken; this will help the chicken brown properly and prevent it from sticking. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, season generously with salt and black pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. This should take approximately 6–8 minutes. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safely cooked. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, coating the bottom of the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Stir the garlic constantly to ensure it cooks evenly and releases its aromatic flavors.
Step 4: Sprinkle flour over the garlic-butter mixture. This step is crucial for creating a smooth and creamy sauce. Stir continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux. The roux is a mixture of fat and flour that acts as a thickening agent for the sauce. Cook the roux for the specified time to eliminate the raw flour taste and achieve the desired consistency.
Step 5: Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Pouring the liquids gradually while whisking vigorously is essential for creating a smooth, lump-free sauce. Continue cooking until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3–4 minutes. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 6: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 cup Parmesan cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Remove the skillet from the heat to prevent the cheese from clumping or separating. Stir the cheese in gradually, ensuring it is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce before adding more. Taste the sauce and season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Remember that Parmesan cheese is naturally salty, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Step 7: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained macaroni. Gently stir until everything is well coated in the cheesy sauce. Ensure the chicken and macaroni are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup Parmesan cheese over the top and, if desired, a pinch of dried parsley for garnish. The additional Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor and creates a slightly crispy topping. Dried parsley provides a pop of color and a subtle herbal aroma.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is more than just a simple pasta dish; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl. The combination of creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked macaroni creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds. The garlic-infused chicken adds a savory depth, while the Parmesan cheese provides a nutty, umami richness. This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutritional boost, or spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this mac and cheese recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken, making it an economical and sustainable choice. The ease of preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, and the satisfying results will leave you craving more. The rich and creamy texture, combined with the comforting flavors, makes it the perfect dish to brighten up any day.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
- Pair with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious cheese sauce.
- Offer as a side dish at potlucks or gatherings.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives.
- Serve with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
Tips:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Do not overcook the macaroni. Al dente pasta holds its shape better and absorbs the sauce more effectively.
- Adjust the amount of cheese to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Fontina, or Gouda.
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
- To make ahead, prepare the mac and cheese up to the point of adding the final Parmesan cheese. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, sprinkle with the remaining cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly.
- Add a crispy breadcrumb topping for added texture. Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle over the mac and cheese before baking.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper over the finished dish.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the sauce becomes too thin, whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold milk and stir into the sauce. Cook until thickened.
- Add some cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(approximate, may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
- Calories: Approximately 650 kcal per serving
- Protein: Approximately 40g per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 800mg per serving
Conclusion
This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. The creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked macaroni create a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. With its ease of preparation and customizable nature, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of this decadent dish and share it with those you love. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings smiles to faces and warmth to hearts. From busy weeknights to special gatherings, this mac and cheese is a versatile and delicious choice. The combination of simple ingredients and straightforward instructions makes it accessible for everyone, and the final result is a dish that is both elegant and comforting.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is a classic choice for mac and cheese, you can definitely experiment with other pasta shapes. Penne, rotini, cavatappi, or even shells work well because their ridges and curves hold the cheese sauce nicely. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the finished dish.
Q2: What if I don’t have heavy cream? Can I substitute something else?
A: Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. However, keep in mind that the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy if you use these alternatives. To compensate, you might want to add an extra tablespoon of butter to the sauce for a richer flavor.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to this mac and cheese?
A: Definitely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this dish. Broccoli, spinach, peas, roasted bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes would all be delicious additions. Just make sure to cook the vegetables beforehand and add them to the mac and cheese along with the chicken.
Q4: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free elbow macaroni and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the roux. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as the cheese, are also gluten-free. With these simple substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying gluten-free mac and cheese.
Q5: Can I prepare this mac and cheese ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare this mac and cheese ahead of time. Assemble the dish up to the point of adding the final Parmesan cheese topping. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes. This makes it a perfect dish for meal prepping or entertaining.
