Chicken mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, a glorious blend of creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta. Just imagine the gooeyness as you pull apart that cheesy, melty goodness—it’s practically a hug in a bowl. cheesy chicken bacon ranch sandwich If you’ve ever found yourself face-to-face with a heaping plate of chicken mac and cheese, you know it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms your heart and fills your belly. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings where everyone would gather around the table, digging in with wide smiles. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or potlucks where everyone will be clamoring for seconds. Trust me when I say this flavor-packed delight will have you dreaming of cheesy dreams long after the last bite.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This chicken mac and cheese recipe makes weeknight dinners quick and easy while delivering rich flavors. The creamy texture is irresistibly comforting, making every spoonful a delight. Its eye-catching presentation makes it perfect for gatherings while being versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients. [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made chicken mac and cheese for my friends; their delighted faces were priceless as they dove into their bowls. sticky honey gochujang chicken
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best depending on your crowd’s appetite.
Macaroni Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to use any shape you love.
Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that pairs perfectly with the creaminess.
Milk: Whole milk gives the sauce its rich texture; skim milk just won’t cut it!
Butter: Salted butter adds depth to the sauce; unsalted can also work if you’re watching your sodium.
Flour: All-purpose flour is essential for thickening that luscious cheese sauce.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add that delightful crunch on top—an absolute must!
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle adds an aromatic kick; don’t skip this one!
Onion Powder: This enhances the overall flavor profile wonderfully.
Pepper and Salt: Season according to taste; we all like it differently!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Chicken: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear them in a hot skillet until golden brown on both sides.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the macaroni until al dente. Remember not to overcook; it’ll finish cooking in the oven!
Create the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour to form a roux until bubbly. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth, then add shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Combine Everything Together: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with diced chicken and cheese sauce until well combined. Transfer this heavenly mixture into a greased baking dish.
Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top for that crispy finish. Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Enjoy this scrumptious chicken mac and cheese hot from the oven! The aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen! crockpot cheese tortellini.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Chicken mac and cheese is a comfort food classic that’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Make it extra special by adding crispy breadcrumbs on top for a delightful crunch. This dish is perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests with minimal effort! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in moisture, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy cheese sauce. This sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time, making your kitchen feel like a well-oiled machine.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. broccoli chicken casserole A dash of hot sauce can also spice things up if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Always use freshly grated cheese for maximum flavor and meltability. Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente is key, as it will continue cooking when mixed with hot sauce. Don’t skip the breadcrumbs; they add an irresistible crunch! [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made chicken mac and cheese for my friends; their faces lit up with joy as they took their first bites. They insisted it was better than any takeout!
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time during preparation.
What type of cheese is best for mac and cheese?
A combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates a deliciously creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free pasta and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Chicken Mac and Cheese
Chicken mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is not only a delicious meal but also a nostalgic experience, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, chicken mac and cheese is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you dreaming of cheesy goodness.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp salted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; sear in a hot skillet until golden brown on both sides.
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Add cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced chicken, and cheese sauce. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with panko breadcrumbs and bake uncovered for about 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider mixing in vegetables like spinach or broccoli. Swap chicken for turkey or use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time. Adjust seasonings according to taste preferences.
