Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese with Garlic Chicken
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese is a simple and easy way to make totally homemade mac and cheese without a ton of work. Add garlic chicken to make it a filling meal the whole family will love.
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese is a simple and easy way to make totally homemade mac and cheese without a ton of work. Add garlic chicken to make it a filling meal the whole family will love.
- Carbohydrate 1.2562219367116 g
- Cholesterol 360.592237705 mg
- Fat 74.1389305442232 g
- Fiber 0.0656325195080195 g
- Protein 86.5408188737371 g
- Saturated Fat 22.5623550122484 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (632g)
- Sodium 367.812342347936 mg
- Sugar 1.19058941720358 g
- Trans Fat 6.58400508941371 g
- Calories 1041 calories
Step-by-step
- Place chicken in crock and add broth, garlic, garlic powder, salt and pepper
- Cover and cook on low for 5-7 hours or high for about 3 until chicken is fully cooked
- Remove chicken from crock and shred with two forks
- Add noodles, shredded cheese and cream cheese to slow cooker along with chicken
- Stir well to coat and combine noodles
- Cover and cook on high for 30-60 minutes, stir once or twice during this time for best results
- Pasta is done when liquid is absorbed and pasta is al dente (or softer if you prefer). You can add more liquid if necessary, adding 1/2 cup at a time.
- An extra splash of milk before serving will make it really creamy.
- Stir and serve immediately (don't leave finished Mac and Cheese sitting on warm)
My Comfort Food: Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese with Garlic Chicken
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present question: "What's for dinner?" I need recipes that are quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious. This slow cooker mac and cheese with garlic chicken has become a lifesaver. It’s the ultimate comfort food, satisfying and surprisingly simple to prepare.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. I throw everything into the slow cooker in the morning before heading off to work, and by the time dinner rolls around, a warm, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying meal is waiting for us. The garlic chicken adds a savory depth that elevates the classic mac and cheese, making it a complete and balanced meal. No more frantic last-minute dinners; just delicious, homemade comfort food that requires minimal effort.
The slow cooker does all the work. The chicken simmers gently in broth, infused with garlic and herbs, becoming incredibly tender and juicy. Once the chicken is cooked, I simply shred it with two forks, then add the pasta, cheeses, and a touch of cream cheese for extra richness. The slow cooker’s gentle heat melts the cheese perfectly, creating a creamy, dreamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors: the tender chicken, the perfectly cooked pasta, and the luxuriously smooth cheese sauce – a culinary masterpiece achievable even on the busiest of days.
I often experiment with different cheeses to keep things interesting. Sometimes I use a blend of cheddar and Gruyère, other times I go for a sharp white cheddar or even a smoky Gouda. The possibilities are endless! And the best part? Clean-up is a breeze! One pot, minimal dishes. The slow cooker truly shines in this recipe, making it an absolute must-try for anyone short on time but not on flavor.
Beyond the convenience, this dish evokes a sense of nostalgia. It reminds me of cozy nights spent with my family, sharing a warm, comforting meal. The aroma of garlic and cheese filling the kitchen is enough to chase away any stress and bring a smile to everyone's face. It's more than just a dinner; it's a memory in the making, a tradition waiting to be cherished.
This recipe has become a staple in our home, a go-to meal when time is tight and energy is low. It's a perfect example of how a simple dish can bring immense joy and satisfaction. So, if you're looking for a delicious, easy, and family-friendly recipe, look no further than this slow cooker mac and cheese with garlic chicken. You won't regret it.
Tips and variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Veggie boost: Stir in some sautéed vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Different pasta: Experiment with different types of pasta, such as shells, rotini, or even gluten-free options.
- Make it a bake: After the slow cooker step, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden brown for an extra crispy top.
This slow cooker mac and cheese with garlic chicken recipe is a true testament to the power of simplicity. It's a recipe that embraces the ease and convenience of the slow cooker while delivering a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Try it out and let me know what you think!
