Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese combines tender slow-cooked chicken with rich, cheesy macaroni for the ultimate comfort food experience. This delightful dish brings together savory Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic sauce with a perfectly creamy mac and cheese base, creating a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at your dinner table. The blend of Colby Jack and cream cheese creates a velvety texture, while the seasoned chicken adds a wonderful depth of flavor that elevates this from a simple side dish to a hearty main course.
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Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese
This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese isn’t just another pasta recipe – it’s a game-changer for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to prep other dishes or simply relax while your dinner practically makes itself. Moreover, the combination of tender chicken and creamy pasta creates a balanced meal that provides both protein and carbohydrates in one delicious package.
What really makes this dish stand out is the Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce, which infuses the chicken with incredible flavor as it slowly cooks. When combined with the cheesy pasta, it creates a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and exciting. Additionally, this dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers throughout the week.
If you enjoy cheesy comfort foods, you might also want to try this delicious Cheddar Cheese Quick Bread for a perfect accompaniment!
What Does Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese Taste Like?
Imagine biting into a forkful of perfectly cooked elbow macaroni enveloped in a creamy, velvety cheese sauce with hints of garlic and Parmesan. Next, you discover tender pieces of chicken that have absorbed all the savory flavors of the Parmesan garlic sauce. The dish strikes an ideal balance between rich and tangy, with the cream cheese adding luxurious smoothness while the Colby Jack provides that classic stretchy cheese pull we all love.
The Buffalo Wild Wings sauce brings a distinctive garlic and Parmesan flavor profile that’s both familiar and unique. Furthermore, the fresh parsley garnish adds a pop of color and a subtle herbal note that cuts through the richness. Every bite offers a comforting warmth that satisfies your comfort food cravings while still delivering complex, crave-worthy flavors.
Ingredients for Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb 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)
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2½ cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To prepare this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need:
- Slow cooker/crockpot
- Medium pot for cooking pasta
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
- Meat thermometer
- Cutting board and knife
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
Can’t find some ingredients or want to make this recipe your own? Here are some alternatives:
- Buffalo Wild Wings Sauce: If you can’t find this specific sauce, you can create your own by mixing melted butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and a touch of Italian seasoning.
- Colby Jack Cheese: Substitute with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Cream Cheese: For a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt cream cheese.
- Elbow Macaroni: Any short pasta shape works well, such as shells, cavatappi, or penne.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless thighs can be substituted for more tender, flavorful meat.
For delicious additions, consider:
- Sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor
- Steamed broccoli florets for color and nutrition
- Caramelized onions for sweetness
- Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Crispy breadcrumb topping for extra texture
Looking for another creamy pasta option? Check out this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta for a seafood twist!
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Place the seasoned chicken in your slow cooker.
- Pour enough Parmesan Garlic Sauce to generously coat all the chicken pieces.
- Cover and cook on LOW for approximately 4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Once cooked, shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the chicken to the slow cooker and add more sauce if desired.
Step 2: Partially Cook the Pasta
- About 30 minutes before the chicken is done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook for only 3 minutes—the pasta should be slightly firm as it will continue cooking in the slow cooker.
- Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
Step 3: Combine and Continue Cooking
- Add the partially cooked macaroni to the slow cooker with the chicken.
- Pour in the whole milk.
- Add the shredded Colby Jack cheese and cubed cream cheese.
- Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined.
- Cover and cook on LOW for another hour, stirring occasionally to ensure even melting and prevent sticking.
Step 4: Final Touches and Serving
- When the sauce has thickened and all cheese is melted, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Stir gently to incorporate.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, flavorful creation!
What to Serve with Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese
This hearty dish stands perfectly well on its own, but if you’re looking for complementary sides, consider these options:
- Fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness
- Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus
- Garlic bread for sopping up that delicious sauce
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrition
- Zucchini and Yellow Squash Au Gratin for a vegetable side with similar creamy qualities
Tips for Perfect Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Don’t Fully Cook the Pasta: The par-cooking method ensures your pasta won’t become mushy during the slow cooking process.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of your sauce. Moreover, freshly shredded cheese melts much better.
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Allow your cream cheese to come to room temperature before adding it to ensure smooth incorporation without lumps.
- Stir Occasionally: While the dish cooks in the final hour, stir every 15-20 minutes to prevent sticking and promote even melting.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, allow it to cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes.
- Check Chicken Temperature: Always verify your chicken has reached 165°F for food safety.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store leftover Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container for 3-4 days. The flavor actually improves after a day as the ingredients meld together even more.
Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers for easy reheating. However, the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
About Parmesan Garlic Sauce
The Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic sauce has developed quite a following for good reason. This creamy, savory sauce blends the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese with aromatic garlic in perfect balance. It’s versatile enough to coat wings, chicken, or as in this recipe, infuse a mac and cheese dish with unforgettable flavor.
The sauce’s popularity has made it available in many grocery stores, but if you can’t find it, many recipes online can help you recreate a similar flavor profile at home. Additionally, the combination of Parmesan and garlic is classic in Italian cuisine, adding a gourmet touch to this comfort food favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes! You can bake the chicken in a 375°F oven for 25-30 minutes and make the mac and cheese on the stovetop. Combine them in a casserole dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly.
Is there a way to make this recipe faster?
Absolutely. Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken tossed in the sauce, and prepare the mac and cheese on the stovetop following traditional methods.
Can I use regular pasta instead of elbow macaroni?
Any short pasta works well in this recipe. Shells, rotini, or penne are all excellent alternatives.
How spicy is this dish?
The Parmesan Garlic sauce is not spicy—it’s creamy with savory garlic and Parmesan flavors. However, you can add red pepper flakes if you want some heat.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it completely, refrigerate, and reheat when ready to serve. Add a little milk when reheating to maintain creaminess.
Conclusion
This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that brings everyone to the table with enthusiasm. The slow cooker method makes it convenient for busy days while delivering restaurant-quality results. Furthermore, the combination of tender chicken and creamy, cheesy pasta creates a satisfying one-pot meal that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
Don’t forget to share your creations on Pinterest so others can enjoy this delicious recipe too! If you’re looking for more cheesy comfort food inspiration, be sure to try our related recipes mentioned throughout this post.
Nutritional Information
Please note that these are approximate values per serving, based on 6 servings:
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
The exact nutritional content may vary based on specific ingredients and portions. For precise dietary information, please calculate using the exact ingredients you use in your preparation.