Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is comfort food at its finest. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and pasta all in one dish. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. The creamy cheese sauce makes the dish rich and satisfying, and it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Making this dish at home is easy and allows you to control the ingredients for a healthier twist.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese

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)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, add more butter. Stir in flour until smooth, then slowly whisk in milk until thickened (about 4-5 minutes).
Add Cheddar: Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
Combine: Gently fold in the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken until coated in the cheese sauce.
Bake (optional): For a crunchy topping, transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serve Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese hot from the stove or oven. You can garnish it with chopped parsley for a fresh look. This dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How to Store Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting results.
Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella or gouda for varied flavors.
For added flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or vegetables like spinach or broccoli.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and adding extra vegetables. Try bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to keep the dish hearty and fulfilling.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and add it to the cheese sauce.

2. What can I do if I don’t have elbow macaroni?
You can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or shells.

3. How do I make this recipe spicy?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for some heat. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.