mac cheese chicken recipe

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

I’ve always been a fan of comfort food, and one dish that never fails to hit the spot is mac cheese chicken. It’s a classic recipe that’s been around for decades, but it’s still a staple in many American households. The combination of creamy macaroni and cheese, tender chicken, and a crispy breadcrumb topping is a match made in heaven.

I remember my mom making this for me when I was a kid, and it’s a dish that I’ve continued to make for my own family over the years. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy this recipe is to make. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal when you’re short on time.

The best part is that it’s a dish that everyone in the family loves, from my picky eaters to my husband who’s always looking for something hearty and satisfying. One of the things I love about this recipe is the way the pasta and cheese come together to create a rich, velvety sauce. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves macaroni and cheese but wants to mix things up with some added protein.

And let’s be real – who doesn’t love the idea of having chicken baked right into their macaroni and cheese? Another benefit of this recipe is its healthiness. Macaroni and cheese can be high in calories and fat, but by adding in chicken and using whole wheat pasta, you can make this dish feel much more virtuous.

Plus, the addition of vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers adds extra fiber and nutrients. This recipe is also incredibly versatile – you can customize it to suit your tastes by adding in different seasonings or spices. Some ideas include adding in diced ham or bacon for added smokiness, or using different types of cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for varying levels of sharpness.

Cheesy Mac and Chicken Casserole

Cheesy Mac and Chicken Casserole

4.8 from 1039 votes

A comforting baked casserole combining tender chicken with creamy macaroni and cheese. This dish features a golden breadcrumb topping and is perfect for a family dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 520 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat 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 8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
4In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
5Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly and golden.
6Gradually whisk in the milk and continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
7Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
8Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika, mixing well.
9In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, and the cheese sauce.
10Stir until everything is evenly coated.
11Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
12In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and Parmesan cheese until crumbly.
13Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
14Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 520 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 16g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Watch Video Of How Cheesy Mac and Chicken Casserole Works

This mac cheese chicken recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is easy to make and everyone loves it. I often make it for family gatherings or potlucks and it disappears quickly. It is a reliable dish that never fails to please a crowd.

For storage, let the dish cool completely then cover it tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.

You can also microwave individual portions for a quick lunch. For serving, I like to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of hot sauce on top to brighten the flavors. It is a versatile meal that works for dinner, leftovers, or even a casual get together.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Mac and Chicken Casserole

Q: What type of pasta should I use?

A: You can use any type of pasta you like, but macaroni works best because it holds onto the cheesy sauce so well. That being said, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option or want to mix things up with penne or shells, go for it!

Q: Can I use leftover chicken?

A: Absolutely! This recipe works great with leftover chicken from last night’s dinner or even from last week’s roast chicken. Just be sure to shred it up so it mixes in evenly.

Q: How do I prevent the top from getting too brown?

A: To prevent the top from getting too brown, try covering it with foil for part of the baking time. This will help keep everything moist while still allowing the top to get crispy.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare everything up until baking time, then refrigerate until you’re ready to put it in the oven.

Q: What if I don’t have any breadcrumbs?

A: No worries! You can simply omit them or substitute with crushed crackers or even crushed potato chips.

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