Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese – The Ultimate Comfort Food
If you’re craving a meal that’s rich, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, you’ve just found your next favorite recipe. This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is a mouthwatering fusion of tender slow-cooked chicken, bold garlic-parmesan flavor, and luxuriously creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.
Below is a detailed, step-by-step recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a cheesy masterpiece that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce (enough to coat the chicken generously)
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups uncooked)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2½ cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, cubed and softened
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or more to taste)
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Slow-Cook the Chicken
- Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Place the seasoned chicken in your slow cooker.
- Pour enough Parmesan Garlic Sauce to fully coat the chicken. Don’t be shy – this sauce is the flavor powerhouse!
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- Once done, shred the chicken using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and add a little more sauce if you’d like it extra flavorful.
Step 2: Par-Cook the Pasta
- While the chicken finishes cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook for about 3 minutes only. We’re not fully cooking the pasta – just softening it.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3: Combine and Cook
- To the slow cooker with the chicken, add the partially cooked macaroni, whole milk, Colby Jack cheese, and cubed cream cheese.
- Gently stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Cover and continue cooking on LOW for another hour. Stir every 20 minutes to help the cheese melt smoothly and ensure even creaminess.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and give it a final gentle stir.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Meal: Made almost entirely in the slow cooker – minimal cleanup!
- Bold Flavor: The garlic-Parmesan sauce infuses the chicken and pasta with deep, savory flavor.
- Kid-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy pasta is always a hit with little ones.
- Customizable: Add broccoli, spinach, or bacon bits for your own twist.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste amazing the next day. Olive Garden Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
Nutrition & Serving Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours (including slow-cooking)
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 4 to 6
Pro Tips for Success
- Want more kick? Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Prefer oven-baked mac and cheese? Transfer the final mixture into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and broil until golden.
- If you can’t find Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce, try mixing mayo, garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs as a substitute.
This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is more than just food – it’s a warm, cheesy hug in a bowl. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this dish delivers big on flavor and comfort. Give it a try, and don’t forget to save or share this recipe!