Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese Recipe

Name: Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese; 2 cups whole milk; 4 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)

By Sophie Hart – Recipes and Home Inspiration

March 15, 2025

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The aroma wafts through the kitchen, wrapping around you like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: creamy cheese sauce mingling with tender chicken pieces while your favorite pasta swirls around in a delightful dance. That is what you get with chicken and mac and cheese—comfort food at its finest.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s a memory-maker. I remember the first time I prepared it for my friends during a cozy movie night. The look of pure delight on their faces as they took their first bite? Priceless. Whether it’s for a casual weekend dinner or a festive gathering, this dish promises laughter, warmth, and a little bit of cheesy heaven.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken and mac and cheese recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The rich flavors will keep everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds)
Each serving looks like a masterpiece on your plate with its golden cheesy topping
Plus, it’s versatile; feel free to add vegetables or spices to suit your taste!

I vividly recall the joy on my family’s faces when I made this comforting meal after a long week.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts depending on how many you’re feeding; they cook quickly and stay juicy.
Macaroni Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic here; it holds onto that creamy sauce beautifully.
Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar for that extra flavor punch that makes every bite memorable.
Milk: Whole milk enhances creaminess; don’t skimp if you want that dreamy texture.
Butter: You need it for richness; plus, butter makes everything better, right?
Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the cheese sauce to velvety perfection.
Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle adds depth to the flavor—trust me!
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all those yummy flavors.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Optional but recommended for creating that crunchy topping—it’s the cherry on top!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large pot to boil water for your macaroni. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; it should still have some bite since it will bake later.

While your pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat some butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted. Sauté the seasoned chicken until it’s golden brown on both sides—about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove from heat and let cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt another tablespoon of butter. Whisk in flour until smooth; cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually add milk while stirring continuously until thickened—this should take about 5-7 minutes.

Once your sauce thickens up like magic, stir in cheddar cheese until melted into creamy bliss. Add garlic powder along with salt and pepper to taste—as if we weren’t already living our best cheesy life.

Combine cooked macaroni with chopped chicken in a large mixing bowl. Pour that luscious cheese sauce over everything—don’t be shy! Stir gently but thoroughly so every noodle gets coated in gooey goodness.

Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. For an extra crunch factor (and because we all love crunch), sprinkle panko breadcrumbs generously over the top before popping it into your preheated oven.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly hot—the edges may even start to brown slightly because who doesn’t appreciate those crispy bits? When you pull it out of the oven, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before diving in.

Your kitchen now smells like heaven! Serve warm alongside green salad or some roasted veggies if you’re feeling fancy—or just enjoy straight from the pan!

With each bite of this hearty chicken and mac and cheese masterpiece, you’ll experience warmth washing over you like nostalgia wrapped in gooey goodness—perfectly comforting any day of the week!

You Must Know

Chicken and mac and cheese is a comforting dish that brings smiles to the table
The creamy texture combined with savory chicken creates a delightful harmony of flavors
Plus, it’s a hit for both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken in a hot pan; then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This method ensures everything finishes at the same time, minimizing wait and maximizing flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the cheese for your favorites or add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition. Personalizing this dish makes it uniquely yours while keeping it delicious!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For maximum flavor, season chicken well before cooking
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and creaminess
Always taste your sauce before serving; adjustments can make all the difference in flavor!

Cooking this dish reminds me of my college days when friends would gather around after long study sessions, excited to dive into something warm and cheesy. The laughter and chatter filled the kitchen as we devoured every last bite.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use different types of cheese for chicken and mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda can all add unique flavors.

How do I make chicken and mac and cheese healthier?

Consider using whole grain pasta and adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it and refrigerate before baking; just add extra baking time when ready to serve.

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