Chicken Mac And Cheese

Chicken Mac and cheese
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If you’re craving something cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavor, this Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is just what you need!

It’s the perfect mix of tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and pasta that’s sure to make your taste buds dance with joy.

Whether you’re making it for dinner, a family gathering, or just because you need some comfort food, this dish never disappoints.

What makes this recipe so amazing is how easy it is to prepare without sacrificing flavor. You can make it in less than an hour, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some protein with the chicken while still indulging in that creamy, cheesy goodness we all love.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich and satisfying dish that’ll keep everyone coming back for more. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love It

  • It’s Super Creamy: The combination of cheese and milk makes for an irresistibly smooth and velvety sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.
  • It’s Comfort Food in a Bowl: This dish is a hug in food form, offering the warmth and richness you crave after a long day.
  • It’s Easy to Make: With basic kitchen staples and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in no time.
  • Customizable: Want to add more veggies or swap the chicken for another protein? This recipe is super versatile to suit your taste.

Ingredient List

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cooked and diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
  • Salt (for boiling the pasta)

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (preferably whole milk)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)
  • Chopped parsley (for garnish)

This creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is delicious, quick, and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you’re all set for a comforting meal everyone will enjoy!

Kitchen Tools Needed

Before you start cooking, gather these kitchen tools to make the process smooth and easy:

  • Large pot (for boiling the pasta)
  • Large skillet or frying pan (for cooking the chicken)
  • Medium saucepan (for making the cheese sauce)
  • Wooden spoon or whisk (for stirring the sauce)
  • Colander (for draining the pasta)
  • Knife and cutting board (for dicing the chicken)
  • Measuring cups and spoons (for precise measurements)
  • Oven-safe baking dish (if you want to bake it for a crispy top)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken:
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
    • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, then place them in the skillet.
    • Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
    • Once cooked, remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Boil the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes).
    • Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
    • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Once melted, add the flour and whisk it together with the butter to form a roux.
    • Cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
    • Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
    • Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
    • Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
    • Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
  4. Combine Everything:
    • Mix the cooked pasta, diced chicken, and cheese sauce In a large bowl or the pot you used to cook the pasta
    • Stir everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
  5. Optional Baking Step (for a crispy top):
    • If you want a crispy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to an oven-safe baking dish.
    • Sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  6. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Serve hot, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese!

More Recipes >>>>>> Flavourful Garlic Butter Shrimp

chicken Mac and cheese recipe

Tips and Tricks for Success

  • Cook the Chicken Just Right: Don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, or slice it open to make sure there’s no pink inside.
  • Make it Creamier: If you like a thicker, creamier sauce, reduce the amount of milk slightly, or add a bit of cream instead.
  • Use Different Cheeses: Feel free to mix up the cheeses! Add Parmesan for an extra rich flavor or try pepper jack for a spicy kick.
  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Pasta that’s too soft can make the mac and cheese too mushy. Cook it al dente so it holds its shape in the sauce.
  • Boost the Flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce if you like your mac and cheese with a little heat. You can also mix in some sautéed onions or bell peppers for added flavor.
  • Make it a Meal: Want to make it a one-pan dinner? Add some veggies like broccoli or spinach to the mac and cheese. Simply stir them in before baking.

With these tips and tricks, you’ll have the perfect, creamy, cheesy Chicken Mac and Cheese every time!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

  • Chicken: You can substitute chicken with other proteins such as cooked turkey, ground beef, or even bacon for a smoky flavor. For a vegetarian version, try adding sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or tofu.
  • Pasta: If elbow macaroni isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap it for other pasta types like penne, rotini, or shells.
  • Cheese: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, you can get creative with your cheese selection. Try gouda, Monterey Jack, or even blue cheese for a unique twist. For extra creaminess, add cream cheese or ricotta to the sauce.
  • Milk: If you prefer a lighter version, you can use skim milk or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Just make sure to choose an unsweetened version to maintain the flavor balance.
  • Breadcrumbs: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for the topping. You can also skip the breadcrumb topping entirely for a simpler dish.

More Recipes >>>>>> Tasty One Pot Sausage And Pasta

Serving Suggestions

  • Side Salad: Pair your Chicken Mac and Cheese with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Try a simple side salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
  • Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any extra cheesy sauce.
  • Roasted Veggies: Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots make a great side to add some veggies to your meal while complementing the richness of the mac and cheese.
  • Pickles or Relish: A tangy pickle or sweet relish can help cut through the creaminess of the dish and add a nice balance of flavors.
chicken Mac and cheese

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Storage:
    • Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
    • If you baked it with a breadcrumb topping, the topping might get soggy after storing. You can add fresh breadcrumbs before reheating for a crispier texture.
  • Reheating:
    • Microwave: Place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully heated.
    • Stovetop: Reheat the mac and cheese on low heat in a saucepan. Add a splash of milk or cream to help bring back the creamy texture while stirring.
    • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the mac and cheese with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If you want to restore the crispy topping, uncover it in the last 5 minutes of baking.

More Recipes >>>>> Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

FAQ

  1. Can I make Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
    • Yes! You can prepare the dish a day ahead. Just follow the recipe up until the point of baking, then store the unbaked mac and cheese in the fridge. When ready to serve, bake it as usual, adding a few extra minutes if it’s been refrigerated.
  2. Can I freeze Chicken Mac and Cheese?
    • Absolutely! This dish freezes well. After it’s cooled, transfer the mac and cheese into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake or microwave as instructed.
  3. How can I make this dish spicier?
    • To add some heat, mix in a teaspoon of hot sauce or sprinkle cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce. You could also use pepper jack cheese or add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
  4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
    • Yes! Simply leave out the chicken and add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also substitute with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh if you’d like.
  5. Why is my mac and cheese sauce grainy?
    • If your cheese sauce is grainy, it may be because the heat was too high when the cheese was added, causing it to separate. To prevent this, always cook the sauce on medium-low heat and gradually melt the cheese in small batches, stirring continuously.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!

Chicken Mac and cheese

Chicken Mac and Cheese

What makes this recipe so amazing is how easy it is to prepare without sacrificing flavor. You can make it in less than an hour, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some protein with the chicken while still indulging in that creamy, cheesy goodness we all love.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or whisk
  • Colander
  • Knife and Cutting Board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven-safe baking dish

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cooked and diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or any pasta shape you prefer
  • Salt for boiling the pasta

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk preferably whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Chicken:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, then place them in the skillet.
  • Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • Once cooked, remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Boil the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes).
  • Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Once melted, add the flour and whisk it together with the butter to form a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  • Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
  • Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  • Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and combined.

Combine Everything:

  • In a large bowl or the pot you used to cook the pasta, mix the cooked pasta, diced chicken, and cheese sauce.
  • Stir everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.

Optional Baking Step (for a crispy top):

  • If you want a crispy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to an oven-safe baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy:

  • Serve hot, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese!

Notes

Nutritional Value (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 450-550 kcal
  • Protein: 30-35g 
  • Carbohydrates: 35-40g 
  • Fat: 25-30g 
  • Fiber: 2-3g 
  • Sugar: 6-8g
  • Sodium: 800-900mg
Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment and rating!
Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Keyword chicken mac and cheese recipe, comfort food, dinner recipes

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