Description
A rich and comforting mac and cheese made with tender garlic-seasoned chicken, creamy Parmesan cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a hearty family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and melt over medium heat.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth. Cook until sauce thickens.
- Reduce heat and stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add cooked macaroni and chicken to the sauce and stir until well combined.
- Remove from heat, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- Add broccoli or spinach for a vegetable boost.
- Adjust thickness with a splash of milk if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American