chicken and mac and cheese recipe

The Best chicken and mac and cheese recipe

Chicken and mac and cheese has always been one of my go-to comfort foods, a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold night or a simple meal that never fails to bring smiles to my family’s faces. There’s something about the creamy, cheesy goodness paired with tender chicken that makes it feel like a complete meal—comfort in every bite. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a tradition, something I pull out whenever we want something hearty but still easy to prepare. My kids love it because it’s filling, flavorful, and doesn’t take forever to make, which is always a win when they’re hungry after school or after a long day of activities. It’s that kind of dish that feels special, like a little celebration every time we serve it, whether it’s for a family dinner or just because we’re all craving something familiar and satisfying.

I also love how this recipe can adapt to different needs—whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight meal or making it for a bigger gathering, it always comes together well. The chicken adds protein, keeping things balanced, while the mac and cheese gives that rich, indulgent taste that kids and adults alike enjoy. Plus, it’s surprisingly good for you in a way that doesn’t feel like a sacrifice. The whole-grain pasta option means more fiber, and the lean chicken keeps it light enough that it won’t weigh anyone down. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat but still makes sense as part of a healthy diet. And honestly? There’s nothing like the smell of it baking in the oven to make everyone in the house feel cozy and ready to eat. It’s that kind of dish that makes me want to keep it in my rotation year after year.

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Macaroni & Cheese

4.6 from 825 votes

A comforting dish featuring tender garlic chicken in a rich, cheesy macaroni and cheese sauce, perfect for a cozy meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time40 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time60 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 550 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth

For the Macaroni & Cheese

• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. 2 In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let chicken rest in the broth for 5 minutes. Shred chicken with forks and set aside.
3. 3 Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. 4 In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, heavy cream, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. 5 In a baking dish, combine cooked macaroni and chicken with the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat evenly. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

🔧Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot with lid
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cheese grater
• Baking dish (9×13 inches)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 550 kcal🧈Total Fat: 32g💛Saturated Fat: 18g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 950mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

For extra richness, add a splash of cream cheese to the cheese sauce.,Substitute chicken broth with low-sodium broth for a reduced sodium option.,Add steamed broccoli or green beans on top before baking for added veggies.

This chicken and mac and cheese recipe is always a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings because it’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make ahead—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meal prep. Whether you’re feeding kids or adults, the creamy cheese sauce and tender chicken make it a comforting dish that feels special without the fuss of complicated recipes. Plus, it’s forgiving enough to work with leftovers, so you can enjoy it again the next day without any extra effort.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Chicken and Macaroni & Cheese

1. What is the best type of chicken to use for this Chicken and Mac and Cheese recipe?

For the best texture and flavor, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken breasts are leaner and easier to slice thinly, while thighs add more flavor and stay juicier. If you prefer a more tender cut, opt for chicken tenderloins. Avoid using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken as it can make the dish dry.

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2. How do I ensure the chicken stays moist while cooking?

To keep the chicken juicy, pat it dry before cooking and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook it in a pan with a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking. For extra moisture, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to the pan while cooking. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken first and then shred it before adding it to the mac and cheese mixture. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the chicken dry.

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3. Can I substitute any of the ingredients in this Chicken and Cheese Mac and Cheese recipe?

Yes, you can make substitutions based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Here are some common swaps: – Cheese: Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella, or swap half the cheddar for pepper jack, gouda, or parmesan. For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese or blend cashews with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. – Macaroni: Try elbow macaroni, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. – Chicken: Swap for shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh (marinate and pan-fry it first). – Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you prefer a vegetarian option.

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4. How should I prepare the macaroni to avoid a mushy texture?

To keep your macaroni firm and well-cooked: – Use the right amount of water—about 4 cups per pound of pasta. Boil it in salted water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes for elbow macaroni). – Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining to help emulsify the cheese sauce. – Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will turn mushy. Taste a piece before draining to check doneness. – If using a slow cooker or Instant Pot, cook the pasta separately and add it to the sauce at the end to prevent breaking it up.

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5. Why is my Chicken and Mac and Cheese not creamy enough, and how can I fix it?

Several factors can make your mac and cheese less creamy: – Not enough pasta water: Stir in reserved pasta water gradually while adding cheese to help the sauce emulsify. – Cheese not melted properly: Use a mix of melting cheeses (like sharp cheddar and cream cheese) and heat the sauce gently on low heat while stirring constantly. – Too much cooking: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk, cream, or broth to loosen it. – Stirring too aggressively: Stirring too much can break the sauce. Instead, use a fork or spoon to gently blend the cheese in. – Using too much cheese: A little goes a long way—start with less and adjust to taste.

For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream, sour cream, or Greek yogurt to the sauce. If using a slow cooker, cook the sauce on low for 2-3 more hours to help the cheese melt smoothly.