Description
This comforting Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy dish combining tender slow-cooked chicken infused with rich Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce and gooey macaroni. It’s perfect for a hearty family dinner, marrying savory seasoned chicken with classic mac and cheese flavors, all effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce (enough to coat chicken, approximately ½ to ¾ cup)
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 oz elbow macaroni noodles
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 ½ cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (about ¼ cup)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (2 tablespoons)
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Place them in the slow cooker and pour enough Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce over to coat the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Shred Chicken: Once cooked, shred or chop the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir to combine the chicken with the sauce. Add more Parmesan Garlic Sauce if you desire extra sauciness.
- Par-Cook Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 3 minutes to par-cook. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Add Ingredients for Mac and Cheese: Add the par-cooked macaroni noodles, whole milk, shredded Colby Jack cheese, and softened cream cheese to the slow cooker with the shredded chicken and sauce. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Slow Cook Mac and Cheese: Cover and cook on low for an additional 1 hour, stirring occasionally to ensure the cheese melts evenly and the mixture becomes creamy.
- Serve: Once ready, give the mac and cheese a final stir. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Par-cooking the macaroni ensures it finishes cooking perfectly without becoming mushy during the slow cook time.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce along with the Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken in the slow cooker to prevent it from drying out before shredding.
- This recipe can be prepared a day ahead; reheat gently on low heat while stirring occasionally.
- Use fresh parsley to add a pop of color and a fresh herb flavor when serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
