Indulge in Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese Delight

Name: Chicken and Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 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 tsp paprika (optional)

Recipe By:

Emily Harrison

Posted:

July 24, 2025

Updated:

July 24, 2025

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Chicken and mac and cheese is the kind of dish that makes you feel like a culinary hero in your own kitchen. Picture this: creamy, cheesy goodness enveloping tender pieces of chicken, all nestled in perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the ultimate comfort food that can transform any ordinary day into an extraordinary feast. You may find yourself humming a little tune as you whip it up, imagining the delightful reactions from family and friends when they take that first bite.

I remember the first time I made chicken and mac and cheese for my family. It was a chaotic Wednesday evening, and we were all running on fumes. As I pulled the bubbling pot off the stove, the aroma wafted through our home, prompting everyone to appear in the kitchen like moths to a flame. The joy on their faces was priceless, and I felt like a rock star chef! This dish is perfect for cozy nights in, impromptu gatherings, or even just to treat yourself after a long day.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken and mac and cheese recipe combines ease of preparation with rich flavors that make every bite unforgettable
The visual appeal of creamy cheese over tender chicken will have everyone asking for seconds
It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike
Plus, leftovers (if there are any) reheat beautifully!

I still chuckle when I think about how my little niece declared it “the best thing ever!” after her first taste.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 pieces; adjust based on your crowd size.
Elbow Macaroni: Who doesn’t love those cute little pasta shapes? They hold onto cheese beautifully!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar for that punchy flavor that makes your taste buds sing.
Milk: Whole milk works best here to keep things creamy; low-fat just won’t cut it.
Butter: A good amount of butter adds richness that brings everything together perfectly.
Flour: Use all-purpose flour to thicken your cheese sauce just right.
Garlic Powder: Essential for adding depth to your dish without overpowering it.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these essentials; they elevate the flavors wonderfully!
Paprika (optional): A sprinkle adds color and a subtle smoky flavor; I personally love it!

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

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Chicken: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before placing them in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through and juices run clear.

Prepare the Pasta: While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Whisk in flour to create a roux for about 1 minute until golden brown. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until thickened.

Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese gradually until melted completely. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional paprika for added flavor.

Combine Everything!: Chop cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and fold it into both pasta and cheese sauce until everything is well-coated with gooey goodness.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Transfer everything into an oven-safe dish if desired. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Now you’re ready to serve up some delightful portions of chicken and mac and cheese! Enjoy every cheesy bite with those you love most!

You Must Know

This delightful chicken and mac and cheese recipe provides creamy comfort with a savory twist
You can easily modify ingredients for your taste, making it a perfect weeknight dinner
The combined aroma of melting cheese and seasoned chicken will have everyone gathering around the table eagerly

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavors, then cook the pasta while making the cheese sauce. This method saves time and ensures everything comes together beautifully.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheeses for a unique flavor or add veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. Customize it according to your pantry!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm on low in a saucepan, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your pasta is al dente before mixing; it will absorb some sauce later
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting—the pre-shredded stuff just doesn’t cut it!
Always taste as you go, adjusting seasoning for personal preference makes all the difference

Sometimes I think back to that dinner party when my friends devoured this dish—it was gone before I could even grab seconds! Their smiles made all the cooking worth it.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use any type of pasta for chicken and mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Elbow macaroni is classic, but feel free to experiment with any pasta shape you enjoy.

What can I substitute for chicken?

Consider using turkey or even cooked vegetables for a vegetarian twist; both work well!

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the cheese sauce; they’ll give your dish an exciting kick!

0 Shares