chicken mac and cheese recipe
The Best chicken mac and cheese recipe
Chicken mac and cheese is one of those recipes that feels like a little comfort in every bite—simple enough to make when life is busy, but rich and satisfying enough to feel special. I make this dish often, whether it’s a weeknight dinner after a long day or a meal we pull out for a family gathering. The creamy cheese sauce coats the pasta perfectly, and the tender chicken adds a nice protein boost without being overpowering. My kids eat it straight from the bowl, and honestly, I don’t blame them. It’s the kind of meal that’s comforting enough to make you forget about the stress of the day, but still balanced enough to feel like a real meal—not just something to tide you over.
I love how this recipe works for so many different occasions. It’s easy to double it up and freeze portions for busy days, and it reheats beautifully, so you can prep it ahead and have it ready when you need it. Plus, the health benefits make it even better—it’s packed with protein from the chicken, fiber from the pasta, and calcium from the cheese, even if it’s not the most low-carb option. I’ve had my kids eat it regularly, and they never complain about the carbs, probably because it’s so delicious. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but still nourishing, which is why I keep it in my rotation. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family meal or a little celebration, it never fails to be a hit.
Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
A comforting dish featuring tender shredded chicken mixed with rich macaroni and a velvety cheese sauce, perfect for a cozy meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Remove from heat, shred using two forks, and set aside.
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2 Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. In a pot, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour to make a roux, and cook for 1 minute. Slowly pour in chicken broth, simmering until slightly thickened. Stir in cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water to loosen.
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3 In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously. Simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, heavy cream, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let it thicken for 2 minutes.
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4 Combine the macaroni mixture with the cheese sauce in a baking dish. Fold in shredded chicken. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with extra cheese if desired, and bake for another 5-10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot with lid
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Oven
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Works
This chicken mac and cheese recipe is always a lifesaver for family gatherings because it’s simple enough to make ahead of time while still feeling special. It holds up well to reheating, so you can prep it early and serve it fresh when guests arrive, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Plus, the cheesy, comforting flavors always bring everyone together, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday spread.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
What is the best way to prepare the chicken mac and cheese for a crowd?
To prepare the chicken mac and cheese for a crowd, you can use a large pot or Dutch oven to cook the macaroni and cheese sauce together. Cook the chicken in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure even cooking. For extra convenience, you can also use a slow cooker or Instant Pot for hands-off cooking. Make sure to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even distribution in the dish.
Can I substitute any of the ingredients in the classic chicken mac and cheese recipe?
Yes, you can make substitutions in the chicken mac and cheese recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few common swaps: – Cheese: Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. For a dairy-free option, try using dairy-free cheese or blend cashew-based cheese. – Macaroni: Opt for different pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. – Chicken: You can substitute with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly. – Milk: Use a mix of milk and water, or dairy-free milk alternatives like almond or oat milk. – Garlic and herbs: Feel free to add your favorite seasonings, such as smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
How long should I cook the chicken before adding it to the macaroni and cheese?
Cook the chicken breasts or thighs until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before adding them to the macaroni and cheese. Here’s a general guideline: – For chicken breasts: Cook for about 12-15 minutes (or until the center reaches 165°F). – For chicken thighs: Cook for about 15-18 minutes (or until the center reaches 165F). – For chicken tenders or nuggets: Cook for about 8-10 minutes (or until fully cooked).
To ensure even cooking, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook it in batches if necessary. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the temperature accurately.
What are some tips for achieving a creamy and smooth texture in the macaroni and cheese sauce?
To achieve a creamy and smooth texture in your chicken mac and cheese, consider these tips: – Cook the pasta al dente: Cook the pasta according to package instructions, but drain it slightly before adding it to the sauce to prevent a watery consistency. – Use a food processor or immersion blender: Blend the sauce until it is smooth and creamy. You can also use a hand mixer or whisk for a less smooth texture. – Add the milk gradually: Slowly whisk in the milk or milk alternative to prevent the cheese from curdling and to achieve a silky texture. – Use a mix of cheeses: Combining different types of cheese, like cheddar and mozzarella, can help create a richer and creamier sauce. – Strain the sauce: For an ultra-smooth texture, strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve after blending. – Add a roux: Make a roux with butter and flour before adding the milk to help thicken the sauce and create a smoother texture.
How can I make the chicken mac and cheese recipe healthier?
If you want to make the chicken mac and cheese recipe healthier, consider these modifications: – Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta: Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to increase the fiber content. – Choose lean proteins: Use lean chicken breast or turkey breast instead of darker meats to reduce saturated fat. – Add vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to increase the nutritional value and add color to the dish. – Use low-fat milk or dairy alternatives: Replace whole milk with low-fat milk or use dairy-free milk alternatives like unsweetened almond or oat milk. – Reduce cheese: Cut back on the amount of cheese used, or opt for lower-fat cheeses like part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar. – Add lean protein: Include lean protein sources like grilled chicken, baked turkey, or tofu to make the dish more balanced. – Use healthy fats: Replace butter with olive oil or avocado oil for cooking and adding to the sauce. – Increase portion sizes of vegetables: Add more vegetables to fill up the plate and reduce the overall portion size of the macaroni and cheese. – Bake instead of frying: If you are using chicken tenders or nuggets, bake them instead of frying to reduce the amount of unhealthy fat.
