chicken and mac and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best chicken and mac and cheese recipe

I’ve been making chicken and mac and cheese for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. This recipe is a classic comfort food dish that never fails to put a smile on everyone’s face. I remember growing up, my mom would make it for us when we were feeling under the weather, and it was always a special treat.

As an adult, I’ve continued this tradition with my own family, and it’s amazing how much my kids love it. The combination of tender chicken, creamy macaroni, and rich cheese sauce is just irresistible. It’s a dish that’s easy to make and always satisfies our cravings.

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it’s so versatile – you can serve it as a main course or as a side dish, depending on your preference. And the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to customize to suit your tastes. Want to add some veggies?

Throw in some steamed broccoli or carrots for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. Looking for a meat-free option? Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables or tofu for a delicious plant-based alternative.

The possibilities are endless with this recipe! Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, chicken and mac and cheese is always a good idea. It’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you need something quick and easy to get on the table.

Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese

4.6 from 1814 votes

A delicious recipe worth trying! Your family will love this one.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

12 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
3Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
4Drain and set aside
5While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
6Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
8Remove from heat and set aside.
9In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
10Add the flour and stir to form a roux.
11Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns light brown.
12Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream.
13Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
14Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
15Add the cooked macaroni and chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
16Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
17Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.

This chicken and mac and cheese recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and it never fails to impress.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or want to wow your guests with a show-stopping casserole, this recipe is always a good idea.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to customize to suit your tastes – add some veggies for extra nutrition, use different types of cheese for varying flavors, or experiment with unique ingredients like bacon or ham for added depth.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese

Q1: What type of pasta should I use?

A1: You can use any type of pasta you like, but traditional elbow macaroni works best in this recipe. You can also use shells, cavatappi, or other short shapes.

Q2: Can I use different types of cheese?

A2: Yes! While cheddar is traditional in this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, or gouda.

Q3: How do I prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy?

A3: To prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy, cook it al dente before adding the cheese sauce.

Q4: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A4: Yes! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the casserole just before baking.

Q5: What if I don’t have heavy cream?

A5: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk if you don’t have heavy cream on hand.

Similar Posts