Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

The Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to the dinner table. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this crockpot recipe ensures a creamy, cheesy experience without the hassle of complicated cooking techniques. With its savory garlic notes and tender chicken, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
• Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of Colby Jack cheese and cream cheese creates a luscious sauce that coats every bite.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it ideal for family dinners.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with a side salad or serve it as a standalone meal; it fits any occasion.
• Time-Saving: With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you can spend more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon
• Knife for chopping

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: Allows for easy, hands-free cooking while you focus on other tasks.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures that your macaroni is perfectly al dente before mixing it into the cheese sauce.
• Measuring cups: Help achieve accurate ingredient portions for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

This is an easy crockpot dinner recipe my family loves!

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 1/2 tsp each of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder
• Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce
• 8 oz of elbow macaroni noodles
• 2 cups of whole milk
• 2 1/2 cups Colby Jack cheese
• 8 oz cream cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Parsley

How to Make Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Add the chicken breast, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to your slow cooker. Pour in just enough of the Parmesan Garlic sauce to cover the chicken completely.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Cook on low heat for about 4 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Once done, shred or chop up the chicken and return it to the slow cooker. If desired, add a bit more of the Parmesan garlic sauce to enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Boil the Macaroni

While the chicken is cooking, boil your elbow macaroni noodles in a pot of water for about 3 minutes. Drain them afterward; they will not be fully cooked yet.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In the slow cooker, combine the shredded chicken with the partially cooked macaroni, whole milk, Colby Jack cheese, and cream cheese. Stir everything together thoroughly. Allow it to cook on low for about an hour, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Serve with Toppings

Once cooked, top your dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle chopped parsley. Enjoy this delicious meal warm!

How to Serve Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serving Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. This creamy dish offers versatility, allowing you to pair it with various sides or garnish it to elevate your meal.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
• Basil: A few basil leaves can add an aromatic twist that complements the garlic flavor.

Include Crunchy Toppings

• Breadcrumbs: Toasted breadcrumbs can provide a satisfying crunch when sprinkled on top before serving.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy heat, adding red pepper flakes will give an extra kick.

Serve with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, balancing the creaminess with crisp lettuce and tangy dressing.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers brightness to the meal.

How to Perfect Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

To ensure your Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is truly perfect, keep these helpful tips in mind. They will help enhance the flavors and texture of this comforting dish.

• Bold seasoning: Make sure to season your chicken well before cooking; this adds depth to the final dish.
• Creamy consistency: Adjust the amount of milk or cream cheese based on your desired creaminess; more will yield a richer sauce.
• Cheese blend: Experiment with different cheese combinations for unique flavors; mixing in some mozzarella can create a stretchier texture.
• Cook pasta al dente: Slightly undercooking the macaroni ensures it maintains its shape when combined with the creamy sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty meal well.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic accompaniment is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and balances the richness of the mac and cheese.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables provide both color and flavor, making your plate visually appealing.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful touch of sweetness that pairs nicely with savory dishes.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying this rich meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese, small errors can lead to big disappointments. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the cooking time: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Always check that it reaches 165 degrees before shredding.
• Overcooking the macaroni: If you cook the pasta fully before adding it to the crockpot, it may turn mushy. Par-cook it for just a few minutes instead.
• Not stirring enough: Failing to stir the mixture in the crockpot can lead to uneven melting of cheese. Make sure to stir at least a few times during cooking.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese can affect flavor and texture. Opt for good quality Colby Jack and cream cheese for the best results.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Tasting is vital! If you find the dish lacks flavor, don’t hesitate to add more salt or spices as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warm, about 2-3 minutes total depending on your microwave’s power.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to keep it creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese special?

This dish combines tender chicken with creamy cheese and flavorful garlic sauce, creating a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli or switch up the cheeses according to your preference.

How do I ensure my mac and cheese is creamy?

Using high-quality cheese and adding cream cheese helps maintain a rich, creamy texture throughout the dish.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! Most kids love mac and cheese, and the addition of chicken makes it a hearty meal that they’ll enjoy.

Conclusion

Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different ingredients or side dishes. Give this recipe a try for your next family dinner!