chicken mac and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
chicken mac and cheese recipe
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The Best chicken mac and cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share this chicken mac and cheese recipe with you all. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for comforting, crowd-pleasing meals that my family will love. This classic dish has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a large family or just need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is a winner.

I’ve tried many different variations of mac and cheese over the years, but this chicken version takes it to a whole new level. The addition of cooked chicken adds protein and texture, making it a more substantial meal that even my pickiest eaters devour in seconds. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good comfort food? It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize to your family’s tastes. Want to add some spice? Throw in some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes. Prefer a creamier sauce?

Add more cheese or use a combination of cheddar and Parmesan. The possibilities are endless! As a home cook, I appreciate how versatile this recipe is. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or even just a cozy night in with the family.

And don’t even get me started on the leftovers – it heats up beautifully the next day and makes for an amazing lunch or dinner. So why do I love this chicken mac and cheese recipe so much? It’s simple: it’s comforting, customizable, and downright delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household just like it has in mine.

Chicken Mac and Cheese

Chicken Mac and Cheese

4.7 from 705 votes

A creamy and hearty baked macaroni and cheese loaded with tender chicken pieces. This comforting dish combines a rich cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta and seasoned chicken for a satisfying meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 550 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken

8 oz elbow macaroni
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Cheese Sauce

3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat, then add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes.
3Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
4While the pasta cooks, season the chicken cubes with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
5Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the chicken in a single layer and cook without stirring for 4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
6Flip the chicken pieces and continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, then transfer to a plate.
7In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
8Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and lightly golden.
9Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, whisking often, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
10Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
11Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne if using, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
12The sauce should be creamy and well combined.
13In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cooked chicken, and the prepared cheese sauce, stirring gently until everything is evenly coated.
14Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
15In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
16Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese in the baking dish.
17Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
18Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 550 kcal🧈Total Fat: 32g💛Saturated Fat: 18g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 750mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk and reduce the cheese to 2 cups total. To add vegetables, stir in 1 cup of steamed broccoli florets with the pasta and chicken before baking.

Watch Video Of How Chicken Mac and Cheese Works

This chicken mac and cheese recipe is truly one of our favorites – it’s comforting, customizable, and downright delicious. When reheating leftovers, make sure to heat them until steaming hot throughout before serving.

If you’re looking for more ideas on how to serve this dish, consider adding some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top of each serving. You could also serve with some crusty bread or crackers on the side.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Mac and Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

For this chicken mac and cheese recipe, I recommend using elbow macaroni or shells. These shapes hold onto the cheesy sauce perfectly and add visual appeal to the dish.

Q: Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Using leftover chicken is an excellent way to reduce food waste and save time in the kitchen. Just make sure to reheat the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before adding it to the pasta.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains chicken and uses chicken broth as a flavor enhancer. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, simply substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables or tofu.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Sure thing! You can prepare the pasta mixture up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients except the cheese. Then, simply top with cheese before baking.

Q: What if I don’t have any chicken broth on hand?

No worries! You can use water or vegetable broth as a substitute if you don’t have any chicken broth on hand.

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