Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese. Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni is combined with tender garlic-seasoned chicken and smothered in a rich blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This hearty dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy, cheesy sauce with a savory garlic kick
Protein-packed with tender chicken breast
Simple ingredients, easy to prepare
Perfectly balanced flavors with Italian seasoning
Family-friendly and ideal for meal prep

Ingredients Breakdown

Pasta & Chicken:

12 oz elbow macaroni – Classic pasta shape that holds the creamy cheese sauce beautifully.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for sautéing the chicken.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – Adds protein and heartiness to the dish.
1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper – Simple seasoning to enhance the chicken’s flavor.

Cheese Sauce:

3 tablespoons butter – Forms the base of the roux for thickening the sauce.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds fresh, aromatic flavor.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the cheese sauce.
3 cups milk (whole or 2%) – Creates a creamy base for the sauce.
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Adds gooey, melty texture.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Brings sharp, salty flavor and depth.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – Enhances the overall savory flavor with herbs.

Tips and Tricks

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth melting.
To make it extra creamy, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half.
Avoid overcooking pasta; al dente ensures the mac and cheese doesn’t get mushy.
For a smoky twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a handful of crispy bacon bits.

Variations and Customizations

Substitute chicken with cooked shrimp or diced ham for different protein options.
Add steamed broccoli or spinach to boost nutrition and add color.
Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
Swap mozzarella for sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
Pair with garlic bread or soft dinner rolls for a complete meal.
A chilled glass of white wine like Chardonnay complements this rich dish.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Not recommended for freezing, as the texture may change after thawing.

Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac & Cheese – Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety garlic-Parmesan cheese sauce come together in this decadent twist on classic mac and cheese. Comfort food at its finest

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Create Roux: Sprinkle flour over butter and garlic. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Add Milk: Gradually whisk in milk, avoiding lumps. Continue cooking until thickened, about 4–5 minutes.
Add Cheese & Seasoning: Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Cook until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
Combine: Return chicken to the skillet, add cooked macaroni, and stir until well coated with creamy cheese sauce.
Serve: Dish out warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

This recipe balances creamy cheese with savory garlic and perfectly seasoned chicken, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Adjust seasoning to your taste preferences and enjoy this classic comfort meal any night of the week.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American