If you’re craving the absolute comfort food of your dreams, let me introduce you to this irresistible Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of creamy, cheesy macaroni with tender pieces of garlic-kissed chicken, all crowned with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping. Each bite offers a beautiful balance of sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan flavors, enhanced by the savory punch of garlic that makes this dish a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding the family or just treating yourself, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for satisfying, soul-soothing meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and irresistible texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender elbow macaroni that provides the perfect bite to the sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses that bring a rich, gooey creaminess. Let’s break down the essentials:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: Classic choice for mac and cheese, ensuring each bite holds just the right amount of sauce.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced: Adds a hearty protein boost and a tender, savory texture.
- 3 tbsp butter: Key for making a velvety roux that thickens the cheese sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a deep, aromatic flavor that elevates every mouthful.
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour: Works with butter to create the roux, giving the sauce its luscious body.
- 2 1/2 cups milk: Provides the creamy base that makes the sauce silky and smooth.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Delivers the classic cheesy tang that’s essential for mac and cheese.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory dimension that sets this recipe apart.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Sprinkled on top for a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors harmoniously.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing garlic and chicken for rich, well-rounded flavor.
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by preparing the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until it’s al dente, meaning it still has a tiny bit of bite. This texture is crucial because it prevents the pasta from becoming mushy once baked. Drain the pasta well and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Chicken
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, which should only take about a minute. This kitchen moment releases those intoxicating aromas that tell you you’re on the right track. Next, toss in the diced chicken breast and cook it until it’s heated through and lightly browned, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a hint of crispness to the chicken pieces. Remove the chicken and garlic mixture from the skillet and set it aside for now.
Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce
Use the same skillet to melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux. This cooks out the raw flour taste and is what helps your sauce thicken beautifully. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, roughly 5 to 7 minutes. Now is the magical moment to stir in your shredded sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses until the sauce becomes luxuriously smooth and melty. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Cheese Sauce
Return the cooked macaroni and chicken to the cheese sauce in the skillet. Stir gently, making sure every piece of pasta and morsel of chicken gets evenly coated. This thorough mixing ensures each bite is packed with creamy, garlicky goodness.
Step 5: Bake with a Crunchy Topping
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a little olive oil to help them brown nicely and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until the top is bubbling and golden brown. This final step creates an irresistible textural contrast that makes this Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe truly special.
How to Serve Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up this hearty dish, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives. These green accents not only add a pop of color but also a subtle freshness that balances the richness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan right before serving can also amp up the cheesy flavor and offer a little extra visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines on its own but pairing it with a crisp, green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans creates a lovely contrast in texture and adds some freshness to the plate. For a more indulgent feast, roasted garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are excellent companions that soak up every bit of the heavenly cheese sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family meal, serve this mac and cheese straight from the baking dish so everyone can enjoy the bubbly top crust. If you want to impress guests, consider portioning it into individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a charming presentation. You could also top each serving with a sprinkle of crispy bacon or caramelized onions to add an extra layer of flavor complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe stores beautifully. Just let it cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. When you reheat, it’s good to add a splash of milk to revive that creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, it works best before baking. Assemble the dish as directed, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake it straight from the freezer (adding extra baking time) for a comforting, ready-made meal on a busy night.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve that crispy breadcrumb topping. Alternatively, the microwave works fine; just cover the dish loosely and stir halfway through heating to evenly warm the cheese sauce and chicken.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can swap in shells, rotini, or penne. Just make sure to adjust cooking times so your pasta stays perfectly al dente.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
Grated Pecorino Romano or a bit more sharp cheddar can work in a pinch. Parmesan’s nutty flavor is unique, so these alternatives will slightly alter the taste but still yield a delicious result.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives, plus vegan butter. The flavor might shift, but you’ll still get a comforting, creamy dish with garlic and chicken.
How do I get the breadcrumb topping extra crispy?
Mix your breadcrumbs with a bit of olive oil or melted butter before sprinkling on top, and bake uncovered so the heat crisps the topping to golden perfection.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Certainly! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just watch the sauce thickness as it may need slight adjustments.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the cozy, satisfying flavors of this Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s a wonderful blend of simple ingredients brought together with care to create a dish that’s creamy, savory, and utterly comforting. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether for a family dinner or a special treat. Trust me, once you dig in, it will become one of your favorite homemade comfort meals to make again and again.
Print
Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and delicious Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese that combines tender chicken, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheese in a rich sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust and baked to golden perfection. This comforting casserole is perfect for a hearty family dinner or gathering.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Chicken: Add the diced cooked chicken breast to the skillet with garlic and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken mixture from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste, which helps thicken the sauce.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add Cheeses and Seasoning: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken with Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and the sautéed chicken back into the cheese sauce, stirring well to combine everything evenly.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, toss the breadcrumbs with a little olive oil to evenly coat them, then sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and meltability.
- For extra creaminess, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
- Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
- To make it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Using panko breadcrumbs will yield an even crispier topping.
