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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

Scale
  • 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

  1. 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.
  2. Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
  3. 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.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced chicken, and cheese sauce. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
  5. Top with panko breadcrumbs and bake uncovered for about 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Author: Stefanie Weber
  • 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.