Description
Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish featuring tender cooked chicken, fragrant garlic, and a rich Parmesan sauce. This comforting main course combines classic flavors for an easy stovetop meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Chicken & Garnish
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
- Make Roux: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for another minute to form a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine smoothly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and continue stirring for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to low and mix in the shredded Parmesan cheese, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes rich and creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and chopped or shredded chicken into the cheese sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the dish is heated thoroughly.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh, colorful touch.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, use rotisserie chicken or pan-seared chicken seasoned with Italian herbs.
- Stir in spinach or peas to add a nutritious vegetable boost to the dish.
- This recipe works well with any short pasta like shells, penne, or cavatappi if elbow macaroni is unavailable.
- Make sure to stir the sauce constantly when adding milk and cream to avoid lumps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
