There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and mac and cheese. Picture this: tender pieces of chicken nestled amid creamy, cheesy pasta, all topped with a golden breadcrumb crust. The aroma alone is enough to make anyone weak in the knees, with hints of garlic and melted cheese wafting through the air like a siren’s call. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a cozy blanket on a cold day or makes you feel like you’re home, no matter where you are.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends. We gathered for a game night, and I thought, “What could be better than chicken and mac and cheese?” As soon as they took their first bite, the room filled with laughter and compliments, convincing me that I had struck culinary gold! This dish is perfect for cozy nights in, family gatherings, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something special. With each forkful, you’re not just tasting food; you’re savoring memories and creating new ones.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken and mac and cheese is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite
- The rich flavors meld together beautifully for a satisfying meal everyone loves
- Visually appealing with its golden top layer, it’s sure to impress at any gathering
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite cheeses or veggies for added flair
I once served this cheesy delight at my friend’s potluck dinner, and let me tell you—there were no leftovers!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
-
Elbow Macaroni: Opt for classic elbow macaroni; it holds onto the cheesy goodness perfectly.
-
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for that robust flavor that makes your taste buds dance.
-
Milk: Whole milk works best here; it adds creaminess without skimping on flavor.
-
Butter: A must-have for that rich sauce; don’t even think about skipping this!
-
Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch on top; trust me on this one.
-
Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor profile.
-
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the scrumptious flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your chicken and mac and cheese will bake evenly.
Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while dreaming of cheesy goodness.
Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Add chopped chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown and fully cooked through—about 6-8 minutes—until they smell heavenly!
Create the Cheese Sauce: In another saucepan over medium heat, melt butter again before whisking in flour until smooth. Slowly add milk while stirring constantly until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted into creamy perfection.
Combine Everything!: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, sautéed chicken pieces, and cheese sauce; stir well until every noodle is coated in cheesy bliss.
Bake to Perfection!: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs for that glorious crunch factor! Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Congratulations! You’ve turned simple ingredients into an exquisite comfort meal that will have everyone begging for seconds—maybe even thirds!
Enjoy every cheesy bite of this delightful chicken and mac and cheese masterpiece!
You Must Know
- This chicken and mac and cheese dish is not just comfort food; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The creamy cheese sauce mingles with tender chicken and pasta, creating a delightful symphony of flavors that brings everyone to the table
- Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in juices, then cook the pasta while preparing the cheesy sauce. This method ensures everything comes together seamlessly, creating a deliciously creamy dish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add veggies like broccoli for extra nutrition. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top can add a delightful crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk for creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use freshly grated cheese for better meltability; pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that affect texture
- Cook pasta al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with hot sauce
- Season your chicken well before searing for maximum flavor infusion
Memories flood back of my kids’ faces lighting up after their first bite of this dish, proving that chicken and mac and cheese is indeed family-approved magic.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese in chicken and mac and cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar, Gouda, or even Parmesan can enhance flavor and creaminess.
How can I make my mac and cheese extra creamy?
Adding cream cheese or sour cream to your cheese sauce will give it an extra rich texture.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it up to baking, refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready.
Chicken and Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in a warm, cozy bowl of chicken and mac and cheese, where tender chicken meets creamy, cheesy pasta topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust. This dish is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect choice for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With every bite, enjoy rich flavors and delightful memories, all wrapped up in this classic comfort food.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling water until al dente according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and sauté until golden brown and fully cooked (6-8 minutes). Remove from heat and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, then gradually add milk while stirring until thickened. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, chopped chicken, and cheese sauce; stir until well-coated.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
