Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
Indulge in the rich and comforting Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese, a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This family-friendly recipe features tender chicken and gooey cheese enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With its creamy texture and delightful flavor, this mac and cheese is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses for a personal touch!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ cup breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
- Create the cheese sauce by adding more butter to the skillet, whisking in flour until smooth, then gradually adding whole milk until thickened (4-5 minutes).
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Combine the cooked pasta and chicken into the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is well coated.
- For an optional crispy topping, transfer to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Find it online: https://www.weekmealideas.com/creamy-chicken-mac-and-cheese/