chicken macaroni recipe

The Best chicken macaroni recipe

Chicken macaroni is one of those simple, hearty meals that feels like a hug in a bowl—especially when life gets busy or you’re craving something comforting. I started making it regularly after my kids were old enough to eat solid foods, and it became a staple not just because it’s easy to prepare but because it’s filling and versatile. There’s something about the soft, cheesy pasta that makes it feel like a cozy dinner, and the chicken adds protein without being too heavy. My family loves it because it’s always a hit with picky eaters—kids will eat their macaroni straight from the bowl, and even the pickiest adults will dig in. It’s the kind of meal that doesn’t require fancy techniques or expensive ingredients, yet it still tastes like home.

What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can make it a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal for a game day or family gathering. The cheese sauce is rich but not greasy, and the chicken is tender when cooked just right. I’ve also found that it’s surprisingly good for health—it’s got protein from the chicken, fiber from the pasta, and some calcium from the cheese without being overly processed. My kids don’t even realize they’re eating something nutritious because it’s just so tasty. Plus, it’s easy to customize: add veggies if you want more greens, swap out the chicken for turkey, or even make it a vegetarian version with mushrooms or tofu. It’s the kind of meal that doesn’t just fill your stomach, it fills your day with something warm and satisfying.

Classic Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

4.8 from 1409 votes

A comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy tomato-based sauce over al dente macaroni, topped with melted cheese. 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: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 550 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Macaroni

• 12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni
• 2 cups water
• ½ tsp salt

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. 2 In the same skillet, add butter and cook for 1 minute. Stir in flour to make a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. 3 Reduce heat to low. Stir in tomato sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
4. 4 Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
5. 5 In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni and chicken. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and chicken, mixing well to coat evenly.
6. 6 Transfer to a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra cheese if desired.

🔧Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot with lid
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cheese grater
• Cooking spoon
• Serving platter

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 550 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28💛Saturated Fat: 18❤️Cholesterol: 120🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 55🥦Dietary Fiber: 4🍬Sugars: 6🥩Protein: 35

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.,Add steamed broccoli or peas for extra vegetables.,Substitute whole wheat macaroni for a fiber-rich option.

This chicken macaroni recipe is always a go-to for me because it’s simple yet satisfying, making it perfect for quick meals or when hosting family gatherings. It’s hearty enough to feed a crowd without feeling too heavy, and the flavors stay cohesive even if leftovers are reheated—no sad, mushy mess here. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly way to stretch protein and carbs, so it works for weeknight dinners just as well as special occasions.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

What is the best way to prepare macaroni for the chicken macaroni recipe to ensure it cooks evenly?

The best way to prepare macaroni is to rinse it thoroughly under cold water after cooking it al dente (slightly firm) in boiling salted water for about 8-10 minutes (check package instructions). Drain well and set aside. For even cooking, you can also cut the macaroni into smaller pieces if it’s large or irregularly shaped.

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Why does my chicken macaroni dish turn out mushy or too dry?

Mushy macaroni can happen if the pasta is overcooked or if the sauce isn’t balanced properly. To avoid this, cook the macaroni just until al dente, drain well, and rinse briefly with cold water. For dryness, ensure you’re using enough sauce (or broth) to coat the pasta—add a splash of milk, cream, or extra liquid if needed. Stirring frequently during cooking also helps maintain moisture.

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Can I substitute regular macaroni with a different type of pasta (like penne or fusilli) in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute regular macaroni with penne, fusilli, or any other pasta shape that holds sauce well. Penne or fusilli may require slightly longer cooking time (check package instructions), but they’ll work just fine. Just adjust the cooking liquid slightly if needed to prevent mushiness.

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How can I make this chicken macaroni dish extra creamy without using heavy cream?

For a creamy texture without heavy cream, try blending cooked chicken, a little sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a splash of milk or broth into the sauce. You can also stir in a spoonful of butter or a dash of cream cheese for richness. Another trick is to simmer the sauce with a bay leaf and a few whole cloves for a naturally aromatic, velvety consistency.

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What’s the best way to store leftovers of chicken macaroni to keep them fresh and flavorful?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To maintain freshness, let the dish cool slightly before refrigerating, and reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.