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Why Make This Recipe
Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting and creamy dish that everyone loves. It combines tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and rich flavors all in one bowl. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare in a slow cooker, allowing you to focus on other things while it cooks. The blend of Parmesan garlic sauce and creamy cheeses creates a delightful taste that will have your taste buds dancing.
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce
- 8 oz elbow macaroni noodles
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 1/2 cups Colby Jack cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese
- Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Begin by adding the chicken breast, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to a slow cooker.
- Pour just enough of the Parmesan Garlic sauce over the chicken to cover it.
- Cook the mixture on low for about 4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Once cooked, shred or chop the chicken and return it to the crockpot. If desired, add a little more Parmesan garlic sauce.
- Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the macaroni for about 3 minutes, then drain. This will ensure the pasta doesn’t fully cook in the water.
- In the slow cooker, combine the shredded chicken with the partially cooked macaroni, whole milk, Colby Jack cheese, and cream cheese.
- Stir everything together and cook on low for another hour, stirring a few times during this hour.
- Once cooked, top with fresh Parmesan cheese and sprinkle with parsley. Enjoy your delicious meal!
How to Serve Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese
Serve the Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese hot, straight from the slow cooker, for a creamy and hearty experience. You can dish it out in bowls and let everyone add extra Parmesan and parsley if they like. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
How to Store Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave it or warm it up on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it appears too thick.
Tips to Make Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese
- For a spicier kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- Feel free to mix different types of cheese for added flavor. Cheddar or mozzarella could be tasty additions.
- Make sure to shred the chicken well for even distribution throughout the pasta.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by using different types of pasta, such as penne or rotini. Also, adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas can give the dish more nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breast in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and macaroni mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving.
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Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. You can portion it out into containers, and it reheats well throughout the week.
Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast skinless and boneless
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce enough to cover the chicken
For the Mac and Cheese
- 8 oz elbow macaroni noodles
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 1/2 cups Colby Jack cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese
- Parmesan cheese for topping
- Parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Add the chicken breast, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to a slow cooker.
- Pour just enough of the Parmesan Garlic sauce over the chicken to cover it.
- Cook the mixture on low for about 4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Once cooked, shred or chop the chicken and return it to the crockpot. Add more Parmesan garlic sauce if desired.
- Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the macaroni for about 3 minutes, then drain.
Cooking
- In the slow cooker, combine the shredded chicken with the partially cooked macaroni, whole milk, Colby Jack cheese, and cream cheese.
- Stir everything together and cook on low for another hour, stirring a few times.
- Once cooked, top with fresh Parmesan cheese and sprinkle with parsley.