I’m so excited to share this mac and cheese with chicken recipe with you all. As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for easy and delicious meal ideas that my whole family will enjoy. This recipe has been a game-changer for us, and I know it will be for you too.
The combination of creamy mac and cheese, juicy chicken, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping is absolute perfection. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your family’s tastes.
I love that it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s a great way to get some protein and veggies into our diets without feeling like we’re sacrificing flavor or texture. My kids can’t get enough of this dish, and I know your family will love it just as much as mine does.
We’ve had it for dinner multiple times a week, and I’ve even served it at potlucks and family gatherings. It’s just that good! And let’s not forget the health benefits – using whole wheat pasta and adding in some steamed broccoli or carrots makes this dish feel almost guilt-free.
Almost.
Creamy Mac and Cheese with Chicken
4.7 from 616 votes
A comforting baked mac and cheese loaded with tender chicken pieces in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This hearty dish combines perfectly cooked pasta with a golden, bubbly topping for a satisfying family meal.
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Cheese Sauce
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 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 mustard powder
1/4 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
👨🍳Directions
1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes, then drain in a colander and set aside.
4While the pasta cooks, season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper.
5Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
6Add the chicken in a single layer and cook without stirring for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown, then flip and cook another 3 to 4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
7In a medium saucepan, melt the 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.
10Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, whisking often.
11Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, garlic powder, mustard powder, paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
12Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
13Combine the cooked macaroni, chicken, and cheese sauce in a large bowl, stirring 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 the melted butter and Parmesan cheese until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
16Sprinkle the topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
17Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the sauce is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
18Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
19This allows the sauce to set slightly for easier serving.
For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduce the cheddar to 1 cup. You can also add cooked broccoli or peas for extra vegetables.
Watch Video Of How Creamy Mac and Cheese with Chicken Works
This mac and cheese with chicken recipe is a staple in our household, and I know it will be in yours too.
It’s perfect for weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
And don’t even get me started on how well it freezes – just thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat from frozen when you’re ready to serve.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Mac and Cheese with Chicken
1. What type of pasta is best for mac and cheese?
The best type of pasta for mac and cheese is one that holds onto the creamy cheese sauce well. I prefer to use cavatappi or shells, but elbow macaroni works great too.
2. Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use leftover chicken in this recipe. Just shred or chop it up before adding it to the mac and cheese mixture.
3. How do I prevent the breadcrumb topping from getting soggy?
To prevent the breadcrumb topping from getting soggy, make sure to cook the mac and cheese until it’s nice and bubbly before adding the breadcrumbs on top. Then, broil the top until golden brown for an extra crispy topping.
4. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make this recipe in advance by preparing the mac and cheese mixture up to a day ahead of time. Then, simply top it with the breadcrumbs and bake until golden brown when you’re ready to serve.
5. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
This recipe is not suitable for vegetarians due to the chicken added to the mac and cheese mixture.
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