Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of cheese with tender chicken and pasta. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this recipe is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to fit your taste.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Directions:
Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, add more butter. Stir in flour until smooth, then slowly whisk in milk until thickened (about 4-5 minutes).
Add Cheddar: Lower heat and gradually stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
Combine: Gently fold in cooked pasta and sautéed chicken until coated in the cheese sauce.
Bake (optional): For a crunchy topping, transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
Serve this delicious dish hot straight from the oven or pan. You can enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a little extra flavor, sprinkle a bit of parsley or paprika on top before serving.
How to Store Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Make sure to cook the macaroni just until al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or green peppers to the chicken.
- If you like a little heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Variation
You can easily switch up this recipe by using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or gouda, for a different flavor. You can also add vegetables such as broccoli or spinach to make it healthier.
FAQs
Q: Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this dish! Just shred it and mix it in.
Q: Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
A: You can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour for the cheese sauce.
Q: Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese?
A: Yes, you can freeze it! Allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (3-4 breasts)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil salted water and cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
- In the same skillet, add more butter. Stir in flour until smooth, then slowly whisk in milk until thickened (about 4-5 minutes).
- Lower heat and gradually stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
- Gently fold in cooked pasta and sautéed chicken until coated in the cheese sauce.
Baking (optional)
- Transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.