Description
Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken and rich, cheesy pasta, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken pieces and cook until golden brown (approximately 5-7 minutes).
- For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a pot, whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk until thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheddar until fully melted.
- Combine cooked macaroni, chicken, and cheese sauce in a large bowl; mix well.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish. Optionally sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: - Customize your mac and cheese by adding vegetables like broccoli or mixing different cheeses for unique flavors. - To keep the dish creamy when reheating, add a splash of milk.