Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with cheesy, creamy pasta. It’s perfect for a family dinner that everyone will love. This recipe is easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 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
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and let rest for a few minutes, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden, stirring constantly to form a roux.
4. Step 4: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Step 5: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Step 6: Add the cooked macaroni and diced chicken to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
7. Step 7 (optional): For a crispy topping, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• Swap sharp cheddar with a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and gouda for a different flavor.
• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat.
• Add steamed broccoli or peas for a nutritious twist.
• For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with 2% or use a mix of milk and broth.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. If baked with breadcrumbs, the topping may lose crispness upon reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne, shells, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Make sure to add the cheese off the heat and stir until melted gently. Overheating the cheese can cause it to become grainy or separate.

Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 102 reviews

This Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese combines tender chicken breasts with classic elbow macaroni in a rich, cheesy sauce made from sharp cheddar and creamy whole milk. Enhanced with garlic powder and a buttery roux, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for a hearty family dinner.

• Author: Isabella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)

Pasta

• 8 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

• 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

Topping (Optional)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Cook the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Cook them in a skillet over medium heat until no longer pink inside and juices run clear, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and let rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
2. Boil the macaroni: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste and starts to turn a light golden color, which removes the raw flour taste.
4. Prepare the cheese sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, approximately 4-5 minutes. Then, add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and garlic powder, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
5. Combine all components: Add the cooked macaroni and sliced chicken pieces into the cheese sauce. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
6. Add breadcrumb topping (optional): If using, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top and place the skillet under a broiler for 2-3 minutes to toast the breadcrumbs until golden and crispy. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
7. Serve hot: Serve the creamy chicken mac and cheese immediately while warm and cheesy for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or mustard powder to the cheese sauce.
• Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded for a smoother sauce.
• Substitute whole milk with 2% milk for a lighter version, or half-and-half for an even richer sauce.
• Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a lovely crunch contrast.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Keywords: Chicken mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, homemade mac and cheese, chicken pasta recipe, comfort food