There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a bubbling pot of chicken and mac and cheese wafting through your kitchen. The golden, cheesy goodness mingles with tender chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Picture this: creamy cheese sauce clinging lovingly to perfectly cooked pasta, all while juicy chicken pieces join the party. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for cozy family dinners or when you just need a little love on a plate.
I still remember the first time I made this chicken and mac and cheese recipe for my friends. We had gathered for a movie night, and as soon as they caught a whiff of that cheesy delight bubbling away in the oven, I could see their eyes light up like kids on Christmas morning. The laughter and joy that filled the room as we devoured every last bite made it clear: this dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken and mac and cheese recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor combination is simply irresistible, combining savory chicken with rich, creamy cheese
- Its beautiful golden color makes it a showstopper at any gathering or family dinner
- Lastly, it’s versatile enough for both adults and kids alike, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy
I once prepared this dish for a potluck, and let’s just say it disappeared faster than you can say “seconds, please.” Friends were asking for the recipe before they’d even finished their first serving.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy; I usually use about 3-4 breasts depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Pasta (Elbow Macaroni): Classic choice; you can also use shells or cavatappi for added fun.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides that rich, tangy flavor; don’t skimp on quality for maximum cheesiness.
Milk: Use whole milk for creaminess; it helps create a silky sauce that clings to everything beautifully.
Butter: Adds richness to the sauce; opt for unsalted butter so you control the saltiness.
Flour: Helps thicken your cheese sauce; all-purpose flour works best here.
Garlic Powder: A touch of garlic enhances flavor without overpowering the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate every bite; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Chicken: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season your boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear them in a hot skillet until browned—about 5 minutes on each side—until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Cook Your Pasta: While your chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente—about 7-8 minutes—then drain but reserve half a cup of pasta water.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In another saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbling. Sprinkle in flour gradually while whisking continuously until it forms a roux—a lovely light brown paste—this should take about two minutes.
Add Milk and Cheese: Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Continue cooking until thickened—about 5 minutes—then stir in sharp cheddar cheese until melted into creamy goodness. If it’s too thick, feel free to add reserved pasta water as needed.
Combine Everything Together: Dice your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine pasta with cheese sauce and chicken pieces. Stir well until everything is coated in cheesy delight.
Bake to Perfection!: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent! Bake uncovered in the oven for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
And there you have it! This chicken and mac and cheese recipe comes together effortlessly while filling your home with mouth-watering aromas that will have everyone asking what’s cooking! Serve hot with some crispy breadcrumbs sprinkled on top for added crunch if you’re feeling fancy (or if you want to impress anyone). Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know
- This chicken and mac and cheese recipe is comfort food at its finest
- Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
- The aromas wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting at the dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken for golden-brown perfection. While it cooks, boil your pasta and prepare the cheese sauce to ensure everything is ready simultaneously.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheddar for your favorite cheese or toss in some veggies like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk for creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cheese to enhance flavor; avoid pre-grated cheese as it contains anti-caking agents
- Don’t skip seasoning your chicken; it’s key for deliciousness
- A touch of garlic powder can elevate your mac and cheese to gourmet levels!
Creating this chicken and mac and cheese recipe reminded me of family gatherings filled with laughter, stories, and a lot of melted cheese shared among loved ones.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves you cooking time.
What type of pasta should I use?
Elbow macaroni is classic, but shells or cavatappi add a fun twist.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it in advance and bake just before serving for fresh goodness.
Creamy Chicken and Mac & Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy chicken and mac and cheese dish. Featuring tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. In just one pot, create a meal that tantalizes your taste buds and fills your home with mouthwatering aromas. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking to treat yourself, this dish promises satisfaction in every cheesy bite.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or shells/cavatappi)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water for about 7-8 minutes until al dente; drain, reserving half a cup of pasta water.
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in flour to create a roux; cook for about 2 minutes.
- Slowly add milk while whisking until smooth. Cook until thickened (about 5 minutes), then stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Dice cooked chicken and combine it with the pasta and cheese sauce in a large bowl, mixing well.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, optionally topping with extra cheese. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
