Delicious Chicken and Mac and Cheese Recipe

Name: Delicious Chicken and Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups whole milk; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

March 20, 2025

Updated:

March 20, 2025

Pin5

5 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

a steaming bowl of creamy chicken and mac and cheese that hugs you back like a warm blanket on a chilly evening. The rich, cheesy sauce clings to each elbow-shaped pasta piece as tender pieces of chicken mingle in this delightful dish. It’s like a culinary hug that whispers, “Everything’s going to be okay.”

Now imagine sharing this comforting meal around your dinner table, where laughter fills the air. Friends exchange stories while savoring every bite. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that brings people together during cozy nights or lively gatherings. Anticipation builds with every bubbling sound from the oven as you prepare to serve up happiness on a plate.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This comforting chicken and mac and cheese recipe makes weeknight dinners a breeze
It combines rich flavors with creamy textures for ultimate satisfaction
Visually appealing with its golden crust on top, it’s sure to impress guests or family alike
Perfect for customizing based on what you have in your pantry!

A small paragraph of a Personal anecdote of 15 to 20 words sharing a specific experience with the recipe.

I’ll never forget my niece’s face when she took her first bite—pure delight in cheesy form!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts, adjusting based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Macaroni Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional here, but feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes for fun.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A blend of sharp and mild cheddar gives an incredible flavor profile—go bold!
Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess; skim milk will leave you feeling less satisfied.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness in your dish better.
Flour: All-purpose flour thickens our cheese sauce beautifully—no lumps allowed!
Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Essential for enhancing all those lovely flavors; don’t skip them!
Breadcrumbs: Optional but recommended for that crunchy topping that makes everything better.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients into one happy place. This keeps things efficient as you cook.

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well but do not rinse; we want that starch!

Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter before adding diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown—about 6-8 minutes.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In another saucepan, melt more butter and whisk in flour until bubbly. Gradually pour in milk while stirring continuously until thickened—this should take around 5 minutes.

Add Cheeses: Remove the sauce from heat before stirring in shredded cheddar until melted into gooey perfection—yes!

Combine Everything: Fold cooked pasta into the cheese sauce along with sautéed chicken until well-coated before transferring everything into a greased baking dish.

Bake Until Golden: Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top if desired then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Enjoy this ultimate comfort food delight!

You Must Know

This delectable chicken and mac and cheese recipe combines creamy texture with savory flavors
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, and its comforting aroma brings everyone to the table
Don’t forget to use a blend of cheeses for an irresistible taste explosion!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first for juicy flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing your rich cheese sauce. This method ensures everything comes together seamlessly and keeps your kitchen chaos to a minimum.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for color and nutrition. You can also try different cheeses or spices to suit your personal taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When cooking chicken, make sure it’s cooked through but not dry; use a meat thermometer for precision
Keep an eye on your pasta; overcooked noodles can ruin the dish
Always taste as you go to ensure perfect seasoning balance

Cooking this chicken and mac and cheese brings back fond memories of family dinners filled with laughter and cheesy goodness. My friends still rave about it every time I prepare it!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What type of cheeses work best?

A blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese creates a creamy, flavorful sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to kick things up a notch!