Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese Recipe

Catch the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this creamy chicken and mac and cheese. Picture yourself digging into a bowl of gooey goodness, where each bite melts in your mouth, combining tender chicken with silky cheese sauce over perfectly cooked macaroni. It’s a dish that has the power to bring everyone around the table faster than you can say “macaroni.”

I remember the first time I made chicken and mac and cheese; it was during a rainy day when my friends were over for movie night. We needed something cozy to warm our souls while we laughed at cheesy rom-coms. Little did I know that this dish would become our go-to comfort food for every gathering!

I can’t count how many times I’ve been showered with compliments after serving this dish at family gatherings. Friends often request seconds, sometimes thirds!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
• Macaroni Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic but feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Choose a good quality cheddar for a rich flavor that melts beautifully.
• Whole Milk: Whole milk creates a creamier sauce; low-fat can work but won’t be as rich.
• Butter: Unsalted butter gives you more control over the saltiness of your dish.
• Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the cheese sauce for that perfect creamy texture.
• Garlic Powder: Adds depth of flavor; fresh garlic also works if you prefer.
• Salt & Pepper: Season to taste; don’t forget them for enhancing all the flavors!

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Macaroni: Boil a large pot of salted water, then add your macaroni. Cook until al dente according to package instructions—about 7-8 minutes should do.

Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on all sides—around 5-7 minutes.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth; cook for 1 minute before slowly adding milk while whisking continuously until thickened.

Add Cheese & Seasonings: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder until melted. Taste for seasoning; adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Combine Everything Together: Add cooked macaroni to the skillet with sautéed chicken. Pour the cheese sauce over everything, mixing well until every noodle is coated in cheesy goodness.

Bake (Optional): If you want an extra crispy top, transfer everything into a baking dish after mixing in cheese sauce. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until bubbly.

And there you have it—a creamy chicken and mac and cheese that might just become your new obsession!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the cheesy sauce for a perfectly timed meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize by swapping cheddar for gouda or adding broccoli for extra nutrients. Spice it up with some hot sauce or fresh herbs!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain creaminess.

Sometimes, I whip up this dish just to hear my kids’ delighted cheers at the dinner table. Their smiles make all the effort worthwhile!

FAQ

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves you time.

What types of cheese work best in chicken and mac and cheese?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda create a creamy, flavorful dish that everyone will love.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it a day before and bake just before serving for best results.

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Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese

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Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, rich cheese sauce, and al dente macaroni. Perfect for family dinners, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Ingredients

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

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Instructions

1. 1. Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. 2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown, around 5-7 minutes.
3. 3. For the cheese sauce, melt butter in another saucepan and whisk in flour. Gradually add milk while stirring until thickened.
4. 4. Stir in shredded cheddar and garlic powder until melted; season with salt and pepper.
5. 5. Combine cooked macaroni with sautéed chicken in the skillet, then pour over the cheese sauce. Mix well.
6. 6. Optional: Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes for a crispy top.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg