Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese Recipe

Imagine a bowl of creamy goodness that wraps around your taste buds like a warm hug. This chicken and mac and cheese dish is not just food; it’s an experience that tantalizes the senses. Picture the cheesy sauce bubbling away while the aroma wafts through your kitchen, making you feel like a culinary wizard. This dish brings together tender chicken pieces mingled with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce that sings comfort with every bite.

This delightful recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of cozy nights spent at home or joyful gatherings with family. I remember the first time I made this dish—my friends thought I had turned into a gourmet chef overnight! Trust me when I say, once you try this chicken and mac and cheese, you’ll be excited to whip it up again for any occasion.

There was that time my mother-in-law came over unexpectedly, and I whipped up this recipe in under an hour. The look of surprise on her face was priceless as she devoured her plate!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work perfectly; adjust based on your guest count or hunger level.
• Elbow Macaroni: Use about 2 cups of pasta; this classic shape holds the sauce beautifully.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for block cheese rather than pre-shredded for optimal melting.
• Milk: Whole milk gives the sauce its rich creaminess; don’t skimp on quality here.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is best since you can control the saltiness of your dish.
• Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken our beloved cheese sauce to perfection.
• Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): A must-have for bringing out all those delightful flavors in your dish.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: For that delightful crunch topping once baked; trust me, it’ll take it over the top!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add elbow macaroni once boiling; cook until al dente according to package instructions.

Sauté the Chicken: In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until browned and no longer pink inside.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In the same pan as the chicken, melt more butter then whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually pour in milk while stirring until thickened.

Add Cheese & Combine Everything: Stir in shredded cheddar until completely melted into the sauce. Combine cooked macaroni with chicken; pour cheesy goodness over everything.

Topping Time!: Transfer mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly across the top along with extra cheese if desired.

Bake It!: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Now you’ve got yourself a plateful of joy! Enjoy digging into your heavenly creation of chicken and mac and cheese—trust me, no one will blame you if you go back for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors. While it cooks, boil pasta until al dente, then mix everything into a cheesy sauce for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack, or toss in veggies like spinach for added nutrition and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Cooking chicken and mac and cheese always brings back fond memories of lazy Sunday dinners spent laughing with family around the table.

FAQ

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly for a quick meal.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese without sacrificing taste.

What types of cheese are best for mac and cheese?

Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it with mozzarella or parmesan for variety.

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Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese

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Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort dish featuring tender chicken, rich cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta that everyone will adore.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
2. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat; sauté diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until fully cooked.
3. In the same pan, melt more butter, whisk in flour until smooth, then gradually add milk, stirring until thickened.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar until melted; combine with cooked macaroni and chicken mixture.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish; top with panko breadcrumbs and additional cheese if desired.
6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 470
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg