Ultimate Chicken and Mac and Cheese Delight Recipe

Chicken and mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food experience, where creamy, cheesy delight meets the savory goodness of tender chicken. Imagine a plate piled high with bubbly, golden mac and cheese, each bite a warm embrace of nostalgia.

This dish is the kind of meal that brings families together, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or the star of your next potluck. The anticipation builds as the aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.

I still remember the first time I made chicken and mac and cheese for my friends during a game night; their delighted faces were priceless!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 breasts depending on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding; they cook up juicy and flavorful.

• Pasta (Elbow Macaroni): Small elbows capture all that cheesy goodness; feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape.

• Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for richer flavor; nothing beats that melty goodness on top!

• Milk: Whole milk works best for a creamy texture; it helps bind everything together beautifully.

• Butter: Adds richness to the sauce; don’t skimp on this one—go for the good stuff!

• Flour: Essential for thickening your cheese sauce into a dreamy consistency; all-purpose flour does the job.

• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle elevates flavors effortlessly; trust me, it’s a game changer.

• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out all those tasty flavors in harmony.

• Breadcrumbs (optional): For topping if you like an extra crunch; mix with butter for bonus flavor!

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Kitchen: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large pot to boil water for your pasta while you gather other ingredients.

Cook the Pasta: In boiling salted water, cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you whip up that cheesy goodness.

Cook the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Cook diced chicken until no longer pink—around 5-7 minutes should do it! Remove from heat.

Create Cheesy Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux. Slowly pour in milk while whisking until smooth.

Add Cheese Magic!: Stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Mix in garlic powder along with salt and pepper to taste—your kitchen will smell divine!

Combine Everything Together: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, chicken pieces, and cheese sauce until evenly coated. Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with breadcrumbs if desired.

Now comes the hard part: waiting! Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

And there you have it—delicious chicken and mac and cheese that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in moisture, then cook the pasta while preparing your cheesy sauce. This sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time with maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping out cheddar for gouda or adding some sautéed spinach for extra nutrition. You can even sprinkle crispy bacon on top for a delightful crunch!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken and mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

There’s nothing quite like hearing my family rave about my chicken and mac and cheese—it really makes me feel like a culinary rockstar in my own kitchen!

FAQ

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds convenience and extra flavor without sacrificing quality.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but mixing in gouda or cream cheese adds delightful creaminess.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything and store it separately until ready to bake for best results.

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Chicken and Mac and Cheese

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Chicken and mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta for a dish that warms the heart. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this easy recipe promises a delightful flavor explosion that everyone will love. With its golden crust and rich taste, it’s a meal that brings people together around the table.

• Author: Logan Reed
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil water in a large pot for pasta.
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and cook diced chicken until no longer pink (5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
4. In a saucepan, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually pour in milk while whisking until smooth.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until melted and creamy.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce in a large bowl; transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 710mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg