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Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese The Ultimate Comfort Food Combo - Featured Image

Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese The Ultimate Comfort Food Combo

Learn how to make delicious Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh garlic, good quality butter, and sharp cheese really make all the difference. Over the years, I’ve learned that a little extra care in choosing your basics transforms simple recipes into something memorable. I recommend using real butter (not margarine) and sharp cheddar for depth of flavor. If you want, feel free to swap chicken breasts for thighs for extra juiciness or use a blend of cheeses for a richer sauce.

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and keep warm.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute—be careful not to burn it!
  5. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and garlic, whisking constantly to create a roux. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
  6. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  8. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every noodle.
  9. Serve the garlic butter chicken sliced over a generous bed of mac & cheese. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International

Keywords: Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese, recipe, cooking, food