The moment you walk into a kitchen where chicken and mac and cheese is being prepared, your senses are bombarded with a symphony of aromas. Imagine tender chicken sizzling in a hot pan, releasing savory notes that mingle with the creamy, cheesy goodness of bubbling macaroni. The comforting warmth wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly day, making it impossible to resist this delectable dish.
I remember the first time I made chicken and mac and cheese for my friends. It was raining outside, and we decided to host an impromptu movie night. As the pot bubbled away, the anticipation grew until we were all gathered around the table, ready to dive into this cheesy delight.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken and mac and cheese recipe is incredibly easy to prepare with minimal cleanup required
- The flavor profile balances creamy richness with savory chicken perfectly
- It’s visually appealing with its golden-brown topping that beckons you for just one more bite
- This dish is versatile enough to be served at potlucks or as a cozy family dinner
My friends’ faces lit up when they took their first bites, and I knew I had struck gold with this recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust according to your crowd size.
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Macaroni Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic; feel free to use shells or any favorite shape.
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Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a powerful punch of flavor.
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Milk: Whole milk gives the creamiest texture; skim will work too if you’re counting calories.
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Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control salt levels in your dish.
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Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken your cheese sauce for that creamy consistency.
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Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder): Essential for elevating flavors; don’t skimp on these!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large pot of water and bring it to a boil while you prepare the other ingredients.
Cook the Pasta: Add macaroni to boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 7-9 minutes should do it. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown—around 5-7 minutes should suffice.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In another pot, melt more butter over medium-low heat before adding flour to form a roux. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes until smooth.
Add Dairy Goodness!: Gradually whisk in milk while keeping the mixture smooth—cook until thickened (about 5 minutes). Mix in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
Combine Everything!: Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce along with sautéed chicken pieces until everything is well-coated. Transfer this glorious mixture into a greased baking dish.
Bake & Enjoy!: Sprinkle additional cheddar on top (because more cheese is always better) and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Now you’ve got yourself an irresistible dish of chicken and mac and cheese that’ll have everyone begging for seconds!
You Must Know
- Chicken and mac and cheese isn’t just comfort food; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The creamy texture combined with tender chicken creates an irresistible dish that warms the soul
- Don’t forget to taste as you go for that perfect flavor balance!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken for maximum flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing the cheesy sauce. This sequence ensures everything is perfectly timed and deliciously hot when served.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cheddar for gouda or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition. Personalizing your chicken and mac and cheese can make it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt; avoid pre-shredded options
- Don’t skip seasoning the chicken; it enhances overall flavor
- Finally, let the dish rest briefly before serving so flavors meld perfectly
Making this chicken and mac and cheese recipe always reminds me of cozy family dinners where laughter filled the air and seconds were a must.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese in my chicken and mac and cheese?
Absolutely! Mixing cheeses like mozzarella or gouda can enhance creaminess and flavor.
How do I prevent my mac and cheese from becoming dry?
Add extra milk or cream when reheating to maintain its luscious, creamy texture.
What sides pair well with chicken and mac and cheese?
A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables complement this dish beautifully, adding freshness.
Irresistible Chicken and Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in this creamy, cheesy chicken and mac and cheese that combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a luscious cheddar cheese sauce. This comforting dish is not only simple to make but also ideal for potlucks or cozy family dinners. With a golden-brown topping that beckons for seconds, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or preferred pasta shape)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil a large pot of water and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente (7-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
- In another pot, melt the remaining butter over medium-low heat. Stir in flour to create a roux and cook for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until thickened (about 5 minutes). Mix in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and sautéed chicken; transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Top with additional cheddar cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
