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Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
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★★★★★

5.3 from 17 reviews

This Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy cheddar sauce. Enhanced by a velvety cheese sauce made from scratch with a buttery roux and whole milk, this comforting casserole can also be baked with a crispy breadcrumb topping for extra texture. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, it’s a delicious twist on the classic mac and cheese that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cubed
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)

Pasta

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Topping (Optional)

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. Create the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes without browning. Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and whisk for about 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  4. Add Cheddar: Reduce heat to low and gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and garlic powder into the thickened sauce. Stir constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine: Gently fold the cooked macaroni and sautéed chicken into the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated and incorporated.
  6. Bake (Optional): For a crunchy topping, transfer the mac and cheese mixture to an oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20 minutes until golden and crispy on top.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for a robust cheese flavor; mixing in some Monterey Jack or mozzarella can add extra creaminess.
  • Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t become mushy after baking.
  • The optional breadcrumb topping adds a lovely crunch but can be omitted for a softer casserole.
  • Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • For a lower-fat version, substitute whole milk with 2% or use reduced-fat cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy chicken mac and cheese, cheesy chicken pasta, baked mac and cheese, comfort food, easy dinner recipe

Find it online: https://zarameals.com/creamy-chicken-mac-and-cheese-recipe/