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; 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 4 ounces cream cheese; 1 cup whole milk; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt & pepper to taste; Optional: breadcrumbs for topping

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A dish that brings together tender chicken morsels swimming in a sea of creamy, cheesy goodness is nothing short of a culinary hug—imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes to perfection. The moment you take that first bite of chicken and mac and cheese, it’s like a warm blanket on a chilly night; each mouthful is a delightful celebration of flavors, textures, and nostalgia.

This delightful recipe has been a staple in our household during holidays, cozy family gatherings, or even just those lazy Sundays when getting out of pajamas seems like an Olympic sport. With its rich flavors and gooey cheese that stretches longer than your patience while waiting for it to cool, this dish is guaranteed to make everyone feel right at home.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken and mac and cheese recipe is straightforward enough for weeknight dinners but fancy enough for special occasions
The blend of cheeses creates a rich flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds
Visually appealing with its golden crust on top, it’s sure to impress any dinner guest
Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily add veggies or swap proteins based on your taste preferences

I’ll never forget the time I made this dish for my best friend’s birthday party—everyone devoured it so quickly that I barely got a spoonful myself!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 pieces are ideal; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice! Use whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Grate fresh cheddar for maximum flavor—trust me on this one!
Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess; let it soften at room temperature before using.
Milk: Use whole milk for richness or low-fat if you’re watching calories.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best; it gives you more control over the saltiness.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Onion Powder: For earthiness; fresh onions work too if you prefer them sautéed.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors together.
Breadcrumbs: Optional topping for crunch; use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispness.

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

Let’s Make it together

**Step One: Preheat Your Oven**

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

**Step Two: Cook the Pasta**

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook elbow macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well but do not rinse.

**Step Three: Sauté the Chicken**

In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add diced boneless chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown.

**Step Four: Create the Cheese Sauce**

In another saucepan over medium heat, melt remaining butter. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually whisk in milk. Cook until thickened before adding cream cheese and sharp cheddar.

**Step Five: Combine Everything**

In a large bowl, mix cooked macaroni, sautéed chicken pieces, and cheese sauce. Stir until everything is coated evenly.

**Step Six: Bake It Up**

Transfer mixture into greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs if desired. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

And there you have it—a comforting plate of chicken and mac and cheese that will make your taste buds sing! Enjoy every cheesy bite while reminiscing about cozy nights spent around the dinner table with loved ones.

You Must Know

This delightful chicken and mac and cheese dish combines creamy textures with savory flavors, making it a comfort food favorite
The aroma of melting cheese and fresh herbs fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table for a hearty meal

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in the juices, then cook the pasta while preparing the cheesy sauce for maximum flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutritious twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your pasta is al dente before mixing it with the sauce; this prevents mushiness
Use freshly grated cheese for a creamier sauce that melts beautifully
Season your chicken well to enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish

Cooking this chicken and mac and cheese dish always reminds me of family gatherings, where laughter and cheesy goodness filled the air, creating cherished memories.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it’s completely thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but a blend of cheeses adds depth and creaminess.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative.