Irresistible Chicken and Mac and Cheese Recipe Delight

There’s something magical about the combination of chicken and mac and cheese that ignites a joyful spark in your taste buds. Imagine succulent pieces of chicken nestled among creamy, cheesy pasta, each bite a delightful fusion of flavors that screams comfort food. creamy cheesy potatoes This dish is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table with family and friends, sharing laughter and stories as you indulge in its rich goodness.

Now, picture this: you’re having one of those days where everything seems to go wrong. You stumble home from work, exhausted, with a craving for something warm and satisfying. That’s when chicken and mac and cheese swoops in like a superhero—quick to prepare and even quicker to delight! Trust me, this dish will turn any frown upside down and keep you coming back for more. For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe.

Ingredients for chicken and mac and cheese

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese; cook until al dente so it holds up well against the sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best for maximum flavor; feel free to mix in some mozzarella for extra creaminess.
• Milk: Whole milk gives the sauce a rich texture; avoid skim milk as it won’t be as creamy.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for cooking the chicken and making the sauce; it lets you control the saltiness.

For the Sauce:

• Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken your cheese sauce while adding a bit of body to each bite.
• Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning that adds depth of flavor without any fuss; fresh garlic works too if you’re feeling fancy.

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

How to Make chicken and mac and cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting for that comforting warmth, grab your trusty baking dish (about 9×13 inches) and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season your boneless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt some butter. Cook the seasoned chicken until golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side—and ensure it’s cooked through.

Step 3: Boil the Macaroni

In another pot, bring salted water to a boil. Toss in your elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. You want them firm enough to hold their shape once mixed with all that cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet used for chicken (because why dirty more dishes?), melt more butter then whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually pour in milk while continuing to whisk until thickened—about two minutes should do it! Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted into a glorious sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once everything is ready—drain that macaroni—mix together your cooked chicken, macaroni, and cheese sauce in a large bowl until well combined. Feel free to taste test (you know you want to).

Step 6: Bake It Up

Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish. Top with additional cheddar if you’re feeling cheesy (pun intended). Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every creamy bite of this comforting dish!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing your cheesy sauce. This efficient sequence ensures everything is ready at the same time, creating a delightful symphony of flavors and textures.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the cheeses for your favorites or add spices like cayenne for a kick. Consider throwing in some veggies like spinach or broccoli to sneak in some greens. Personalizing this dish makes it uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to revive that creamy goodness.

I remember making chicken and mac and cheese for my family during a rainy day. The smiles around the table as they dug in were worth every minute spent cooking!

FAQs:

What is the best type of cheese for chicken and mac and cheese?

When making chicken and mac and cheese, the best types of cheese are usually cheddar and mozzarella. Cheddar provides a sharp, rich flavor that complements the chicken beautifully. Mozzarella adds a gooey texture, making the dish creamy and delicious. For an extra kick, consider adding a hint of pepper jack or gouda. Mixing different cheeses can also enhance the flavor profile, creating a more complex dish that everyone will love.

Can I use leftover chicken for chicken and mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is an excellent way to save time when preparing chicken and mac and cheese. Shredded or diced cooked chicken works particularly well in this recipe. Not only does it reduce cooking time, but it also infuses the dish with savory flavors from the previously cooked chicken. This makes your meal both efficient and tasty.

How can I make my chicken and mac and cheese healthier?

To create a healthier version of chicken and mac and cheese, consider using whole grain pasta instead of regular macaroni. You can also replace heavy cream with low-fat milk or Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess. Adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli not only boosts nutrition but also adds color to the dish. These simple swaps make your meal nutritious without sacrificing taste. For more inspiration, check out this one-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup recipe.

Can I freeze chicken and mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze chicken and mac and cheese for later enjoyment! To do this, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave. chicken pesto pasta Keep in mind that freezing may slightly alter the texture of the pasta, but it will still taste delicious.

Conclusion for chicken and mac and cheese:

Chicken and mac and cheese is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with creamy pasta for a delightful meal. By choosing flavorful cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella, you enhance its richness while using leftovers saves time. tender juicy chicken breasts Incorporating healthier ingredients such as whole grain pasta or veggies makes it nutritious too. Whether enjoyed fresh or frozen, this dish remains a family favorite that’s easy to prepare any day of the week.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Chicken and Mac and Cheese

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Liora
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Save Recipe Recipe Saved

Save Recipe Recipe Saved

Description

Chicken and mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food that brings together juicy chicken and indulgent, creamy pasta in a delightful dish. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Whip up this satisfying meal in no time, and enjoy every creamy bite!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and cook chicken until golden brown (5-7 minutes per side), ensuring it's cooked through.
3. In a separate pot, boil salted water and cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In the same skillet used for chicken, melt remaining butter. Whisk in flour until smooth; gradually add milk while whisking until thickened (about 2 minutes). Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Combine cooked chicken, macaroni, and cheese sauce in a large bowl; mix well. Transfer to the prepared baking dish, top with additional cheddar if desired, and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 90mg