Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is a beloved comfort dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Growing up, this was a staple in my household, often served on chilly evenings or during family gatherings. It’s one of those meals that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.
Why you’ll love this dish
What sets this recipe apart is its sheer simplicity and comfort. It’s a budget-friendly option that brings both flavor and warmth, winning over even the pickiest of eaters. Imagine a weeknight after a long day, and you want something delicious and easy to whip up—this creamy chicken mac and cheese is exactly what you want. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also customizable. You can add vegetables or swap out the type of cheese based on your preferences.
"This Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is pure comfort food! The cheese sauce is incredibly smooth, and it has become a favorite in our house!"
How this recipe comes together
Making this delightful dish is straightforward and quick. You’ll start by cooking the pasta while sautéing the seasoned chicken in a skillet. After that, you’ll prepare a luscious cheese sauce, with the cheese melting into a creamy perfection that covers the pasta and chicken entirely. Finally, for those who love a bit of crunch, you can transfer everything to an oven-safe dish and bake it with breadcrumbs. It’s a combination of textures that you’ll fall in love with!
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Ingredients
- 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 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
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Feel free to substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile!
Step-by-step instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked through.
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Create the Cheese Sauce: Add the remaining butter to the skillet. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly, cooking until the sauce thickens, roughly 4-5 minutes.
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Add Cheddar: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy sauce.
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Combine: Gently fold in the cooked macaroni and the sautéed chicken, making sure everything is beautifully coated in the cheese sauce.
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Bake (optional): For a crunchy top, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
Best ways to enjoy it
Once your Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is ready, it can be served in elegant bowls with a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For an added kick, consider a side of sautéed greens or roasted broccoli.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. When storing, be sure to label your containers with the date.
Helpful cooking tips
- To make this dish even quicker, use rotisserie chicken to skip the sautéing step.
- For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of cream to the cheese sauce.
- If you prefer a spicier version, try incorporating diced jalapeños or green chilies.
Creative twists
- Swap the elbow macaroni for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier version.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nourishment.
- Try using a blend of cheeses like gouda and mozzarella for a unique twist on flavor.
FAQs
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What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
You can use any pasta shape you prefer—penne or shells work great too! -
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30-40 minutes. -
Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat before serving. -
Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and add in vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers instead. -
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 days or frozen for up to a month.
Final thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese. This recipe is bound to become a staple in your home, just as it is in mine. I encourage you to give it a try and would love to hear your thoughts or variations in the comments! Enjoy your meal!
Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through.
- Add the remaining butter to the skillet. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly, cooking until the sauce thickens, roughly 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy sauce.
- Gently fold in the cooked macaroni and the sautéed chicken, making sure everything is beautifully coated in the cheese sauce.
- For a crunchy top, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.