Okay, picture this: Here is It’s a chilly evening, you’re craving something ridiculously comforting, but you also want something soothing. With a little… oomph. What is the best way to replace mac and cheese with Chicken Casserole? What is the best combination of chicken and mac and cheese? What are some of the best masterpieces that are easy to whip up? What if your favorite childhood mac and your grown-up chicken dinner met and they decided to have a good time. Is this stuff addictive? I’ve made this more times than I can count, and it always disappears in a flash. If you like the ease of a classic mac and cheese but want something more substantial, this is your ticket.
What is chicken mac and cheese?
What does Chicken Mac and cheese taste like? a delicious combination of creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese, with tender pieces of chicken mixed in. Think of it as a supercharged version of classic mac, elevated by the addition of savory chicken. What is the ultimate comfort food? What are some of the best protein-packed meals? What is the beauty of simplicity? No complicated sauces, no fancy techniques, just straightforward goodness that even a beginner cooks. Is it easier to order takeout than ordering online?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Alright, let me tell you why this Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is about to become your new go-to. First off, the flavor is just phenomenal. We’re talking creamy, cheesy, savory goodness with a hint of chickeny richness that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds!). I’ve tweaked this recipe over the years to get the perfect balance of cheese and chicken, and it’s finally there. What I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to make. Seriously, it’s one of those weeknight wonders that comes together in under an hour, using ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. It’s a lifesaver when you’re short on time but still want a delicious, home-cooked meal. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! Chicken and pasta are staples, and you can use whatever cheese you have on hand. This is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken, too! And the best part? It’s versatile. You can customize it to your liking by adding veggies, different cheeses, or even a little spice. I sometimes throw in some broccoli or peas to sneak in some extra greens for the kids. Speaking of kids, they absolutely LOVE this recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even with the pickiest eaters. Compared to a regular Baked Mac and cheese, adding the chicken makes it a complete meal, cutting down on the side dishes you need to make!
How do you make chicken mac and cheese?
Quick Overview
How do I make Chicken Mac and cheese? How do you cook pasta, whip up a creamy cheese sauce, toss in some cooked chicken, and serve it all up! Bake it until golden brown and bubbly. How do you make a creamy cheese sauce for chicken? What is the baking step? It’s what really brings it all together, melding the flavors and creating that perfect taste. Is it a crispy top? What are some foolproof recipes?
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese: What is the recipe?
* 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape) * 6 tablespoons butter * 1/2 cup all-purpose flour * 1/4 cup kosher salt I like cheddar cheese, but I don’t like whole milk. I’ve tried it and it’s good. So I used whole wheat flour * 3 cups milk (whole milk works best for creaminess) * 4 cups shredded cheese (I like it) To use a mix of sharp and mild) * 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for extra meltiness) What are some good ways to add Black Pepper to a recipe?
For the Chicken:
* 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut) * 1 tablespoon salt and pepper. What is the difference between olive oil and garlic powder?
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. How do I clean my mac and cheese?
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. You want it slightly undercooked because it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the pasta well and set aside. If you let it sit too long, it can stick together, so try to keep it moving a bit.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken, garlic powder, and paprika to a bowl. Mix well. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and lightly browned. What are some of the best ways to make chicken more delicious? I always sneak a piece at this stage – it smells so good!
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Set aside. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until you have a smooth paste. (this is called a roux). This step is crucial for making a creamy sauce, so don’t rush it. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Reduce the heat to low. Add the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg to a bowl. Mix well. Stir until cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I always add a pinch of salt to my recipe. It really brings out the flavors.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked macaroni and seasoned chicken to the cheese sauce. How do I make sure the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the sauce? Where does magic happen?
Step 6: Bake
How do you spread the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish? Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent it from burning. I like to let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Let the chicken mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. How do I make the sauce thick?
What should I serve it with?
What is a complete meal on its own? What are some suggestions? What are some good side dishes to serve with a green salad? The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness of mac and cheese. If you want something a little heartier, roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or kale, like cauliflower or cauliflower, can be used? What are the best carrots to eat? They add a pop of color to your plate. My family loves it with a side of garlic bread, too. For a special occasion, consider serving it with crisp white wine or light beer. Is it possible to make this as a side dish with coleslaw? My grandma always served mac and cheese with coleslaw, and it’s a surprisingly delicious dish.
What are some tips for perfecting chicken mac and cheese?
Want to take your Chicken Mac and Cheese to the next level? Here are some tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years. For the best flavor, use a mix of cheeses. Cheddar is a classic choice, but Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a little bit of Parmesan can add depth and complexity to the sauce. Make sure to shred your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Don’t overcook the pasta! You want it al dente because it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta will become mushy. When making the cheese sauce, be sure to whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming. If you do get lumps, you can try using an immersion blender to smooth it out. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings. Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and even a pinch of cayenne pepper can add extra flavor to your mac and cheese. I once added a little bit of smoked paprika and it was a game-changer! If you want a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the mac and cheese before baking. I also sometimes add a little bit of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and texture. For an extra creamy sauce, try using evaporated milk or half-and-half instead of regular milk. Just be careful not to let it boil, as it can curdle. Finally, don’t be afraid to customize the recipe to your liking. Add veggies, different cheeses, or even different types of meat. The possibilities are endless!
What are the Storing and Reheating Tips?
If you have any leftover Chicken Mac and Cheese (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat it. For room temperature storage, it’s best to only leave it out for a maximum of two hours to prevent bacterial growth. Be sure to cover it well. For refrigerator storage, transfer the mac and cheese to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This will help it stay fresh and prevent it from drying out. For freezer instructions, let the mac and cheese cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. You can also freeze it in individual portions for easy reheating. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help restore the creaminess. You can reheat it in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop. Just be sure to heat it thoroughly. Avoid refreezing reheated mac and cheese, as this can affect the texture and flavor.
What are the most frequently asked questions on
Final Thoughts
What is a chicken mac and cheese recipe? What is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles on their faces? What are some of the best recipes for a chicken dish? What is a comfort food recipe? If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my Creamy Tomato Soup or my One-Pot Pasta Primavera. What are some of the best recipes for a weeknight meal? What do you think of your chicken mac and cheese recipe? What are your thoughts on this recipe?
Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb Elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp Butter
- 0.25 cup All-purpose flour
- 3 cups Milk
- 4 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
- In the same skillet, whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in cooked macaroni and chicken. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
