Name: Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese
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 sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 cups whole milk; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; Seasoning salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste; breadcrumbs for topping (optional)

The aroma of baked cheese wafts through the house like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: tender pieces of chicken nestled in a sea of creamy macaroni that clings lovingly to each bite. This is not just any dinner; this is the glorious union of chicken and mac and cheese.

Growing up, this dish was our family’s go-to for celebrations—or whenever we needed a pick-me-up after a long week. The anticipation that would build as it bubbled away in the oven was palpable. I can still hear my brother’s enthusiastic “Is it ready yet?” echoing through the kitchen every five minutes.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken and mac and cheese recipe is incredibly easy to prepare; you’ll have dinner on the table in no time
Each forkful delivers a rich explosion of cheesy goodness mixed with tender chicken
Its vibrant golden color makes it irresistibly appealing
Perfect for cozy family dinners or those unexpected guests

When I first served this dish at a family gathering, my uncle declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which I must admit is quite the compliment coming from him.

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I typically use around 3-4 breasts; adjust based on your crowd size or hunger level.
Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice; you can swap for shells if feelings are adventurous.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds depth; feel free to mix in some mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Milk: Whole milk works wonders here; it creates that luscious sauce we all crave.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over seasoning; it adds richness to the sauce.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the sauce nicely; no lumps allowed!
Seasoning Salt: A sprinkle enhances every flavor; trust me on this one.
Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper will give your dish just the right kick.
Breadcrumbs (optional): For that crispy topping if you’re feeling fancy!

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

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Kitchen Space: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large pot for boiling the macaroni and a baking dish for later.

Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente—about 7-8 minutes. Drain well but do not rinse; you want that starchy goodness!

Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter before adding bite-sized pieces of seasoned chicken. Cook until golden brown—around 5-7 minutes should do it.

Create Your Cheese Sauce: In another pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle flour while whisking vigorously until smooth—this is your roux! Gradually whisk in milk until thickened.

Add Cheddar to Sauce: Once your sauce is bubbly, stir in shredded cheddar until melted completely. Taste-test here because who doesn’t love sneak peeks?

Combine Everything Together: In a large bowl or pot, mix cooked macaroni with sautéed chicken and cheesy goodness until everything is well-coated. Pour into your greased baking dish.

Add Toppings (optional): If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle breadcrumbs over top for extra crunch before popping it into the oven.

Bake to Perfection!: Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly—don’t let it burn! The edges should be golden brown.

With each step taken towards creating your masterpiece of chicken and mac and cheese, you’re not just cooking—you’re making memories! As aromas fill your kitchen, you might even find yourself dancing around while waiting for that cheesy delight to come out of the oven.

And there you have it—a delightful meal that’s both comforting and indulgent! Digging into this dish will surely bring smiles all around your dinner table as family members ask for seconds (and maybe thirds). So gather everyone close because deliciousness is just moments away!

You Must Know

This delicious chicken and mac and cheese dish combines creamy cheesy goodness with tender chicken
It’s a comfort food classic that you can easily customize to your taste, making it perfect for any gathering or cozy night in
The aroma alone will make your mouth water!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavors, then cook the pasta while preparing the cheese sauce. This technique ensures everything comes together seamlessly, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the cheese for your favorites or add veggies like broccoli for extra nutrition. You can even spice things up with a pinch of cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous!

Storing & Reheating

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

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a creamier mac and cheese, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect texture
Adding a dash of mustard powder enhances flavor without overpowering it
Remember to season your pasta water well; it makes a difference!

Sharing this recipe brings back fond memories of family dinners where everyone would gather around the table, laughter echoing as we dig into this comforting dish together.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use different types of cheese for chicken and mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Mixing cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda creates unique flavors.

How do I prevent my mac and cheese from becoming dry?

Add some reserved pasta water or milk when reheating to maintain creaminess.

What side dishes pair well with chicken and mac and cheese?

A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables complement this dish beautifully.