Sometimes you just need a big bowl of comfort food to make the world seem a little brighter. Imagine sinking your spoon into a creamy bowl of chicken and mac and cheese that’s so rich it practically whispers sweet nothings to your taste buds. The decadent flavors mingle together with the pasta in a way that makes you wonder why you ever settled for anything less than this cheesy dream.
This dish is perfect for those days when you want to impress friends or simply indulge in a guilty pleasure after a long week. It brings back warm memories of family dinners filled with laughter, sticky fingers, and happy faces. So grab your apron because we’re diving into the delightful world of chicken and mac and cheese!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken and mac and cheese recipe makes comfort food feel gourmet without the fuss
- You can customize the flavors to suit your mood or pantry
- Its golden crust is an invitation to dig in, while the rich aromas fill your kitchen with nostalgia
- Ideal for cozy nights in or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings!
I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; their eyes lit up as they took their first bite. It was an instant hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; feel free to adjust based on appetite.
- Pasta (Macaroni): Choose elbow macaroni for that classic shape that holds onto sauce beautifully.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to give your dish that addictive cheesy flavor.
- Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; don’t skimp here if you want that rich texture.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is best; it allows you to control salt levels in your recipe.
- Flour: All-purpose flour helps create that luscious roux for our cheese sauce.
- Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Simple but essential; season well to enhance all flavors beautifully.
- Breadcrumbs (Optional): For a crispy topping; toast them up for added texture.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt before tossing in your macaroni. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In another pot, melt butter over medium heat then whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually pour in milk while stirring constantly until thickened.
Add Cheese to Sauce: Lower heat and add sharp cheddar gradually into your sauce mixture. Stir until melted and heavenly smooth.
Combine Everything: Drain pasta then mix it into your cheese sauce along with cooked chicken. Toss until evenly coated.
Bake Your Masterpiece: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs if desired, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly.
Get ready to serve up some smiles as everyone digs into their bowls of this hearty chicken and mac and cheese! It’s like wrapping yourself in a cheesy hug after a tough day—pure bliss!
You Must Know
- This chicken and mac and cheese recipe is a comforting classic that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with savory chicken
- The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, making it feel like home
- Plus, it’s an easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor, then boil the pasta and prepare your cheese sauce simultaneously for streamlined cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheddar for gouda or add veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat on the stove, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect chicken and mac and cheese, use freshly grated cheese for creaminess
- Avoid overcooking the pasta to maintain its texture
- Let the dish rest before serving; it helps thicken up beautifully
Cooking this chicken and mac and cheese always brings back memories of cozy winter nights spent with family, sharing laughter over warm bowls of comfort food.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne or rotini works great if you want a fun twist.
How can I make it healthier?
Consider using whole grain pasta and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well and reheats nicely, making it perfect for lunches throughout the week.
Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese Recipe
Indulge in this creamy chicken and mac and cheese, a comforting dish that delivers rich flavors and a golden crust—perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Elbow macaroni
- Sharp cheddar cheese
- Whole milk
- Unsalted butter
- All-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add elbow macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown.
- Make the cheese sauce: In another pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, then gradually stir in milk until thickened.
- Add cheese: Lower the heat and mix in sharp cheddar until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Mix cooked pasta and sautéed chicken into the cheese sauce until well-coated.
- Bake: Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until bubbly.
- 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: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
