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Easy Crockpot Mac N Cheese with Chicken and Parmesan

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Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is a rich, creamy, and flavorful comfort food dish made with tender chicken, roasted garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe delivers cheesy goodness with a gourmet twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta & Protein

12 oz elbow macaroni (or shells/cavatappi)

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed (grilled or pan-seared)

Cheese Sauce

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

3 cups whole milk (or 2% milk)

1 ¾ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

4 cloves fresh garlic, minced

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Optional Topping

½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers

2 tablespoons melted butter

¼ cup cooked turkey bacon, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.

  2. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill or sear until cooked through.

  2. Let rest, then shred or cube into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Roux

  1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

  2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).

  3. Stir in flour and whisk constantly to form a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened (5–7 minutes).

  2. Lower heat and stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

  3. Add grated Parmesan cheese in batches, stirring until fully melted.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

  1. Stir chicken into the cheese sauce.

  2. Add cooked pasta and mix until evenly coated.

Step 6: Optional Baking (For Crispy Top)

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13″ baking dish.

  3. Mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and turkey bacon. Sprinkle over top with extra cheese.

  4. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

  • Cheese Tip: Use fresh-grated Parmesan for best texture and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded varieties.

  • Garlic Option: Roast garlic beforehand for a sweeter, mellow taste.

  • Protein Alternative: Swap chicken with turkey, tofu, or roasted cauliflower.

  • Make Ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake before serving.

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or 2 months in the freezer.

Find it online: https://thetastyyfork.com/easy-crockpot-mac-n-cheese-with-chicken-and-parmesan/