chicken mac & cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
chicken mac & cheese recipe
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The Best chicken mac & cheese recipe

I’ve been making chicken mac and cheese for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. My kids love it because it’s a comforting, familiar dish that never fails to put a smile on their faces.

As for me, I love it because it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and pasta. Plus, it’s easy to make and customize to suit our tastes.

The key to making great chicken mac and cheese is using high-quality ingredients and a few simple techniques. First, you want to start with a rich, creamy bechamel sauce made with butter, flour, and milk.

Then, you add in some cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and a blend of cheddar and parmesan cheese. Finally, you top it all off with a crispy breadcrumb mixture that adds texture and flavor to the dish.

It’s a game-changer for any family gathering or weeknight dinner.

Creamy Chicken Mac & Cheese

Creamy Chicken Mac & Cheese

4.6 from 1801 votes

A delicious recipe worth trying! Your family will love this one.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cups water
1 tsp salt

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper

For the Topping

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3Drain and set aside.
4Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
5While pasta is cooking, season chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
6In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
7Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
8Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
9Slice into thin strips.
10In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
11Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
12Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly until the mixture turns a light brown color.
13Gradually add milk to the roux, whisking continuously.
14Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
15Add cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper.
16Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
17In a mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and cheese sauce.
18Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
19If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
20Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to a greased baking dish.
21In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.
22Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the pasta.
23Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
24Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Mixing bowl
Baking dish

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Chicken Mac & Cheese Works

This chicken mac and cheese recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a comforting meal after a long day. One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it freezes beautifully, making it an ideal option for meal prep or batch cooking.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. When reheating, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Mac & Cheese

Q: What type of pasta is best for chicken mac and cheese?

Cooking pasta until it’s al dente is crucial for this recipe. I like to use a mix of elbow macaroni and shells for added texture.

Q: Can I use leftover roast chicken in this recipe?

Yes! In fact, using leftover roast chicken is one of the best ways to make this recipe even quicker.

Q: How do I prevent the breadcrumb topping from getting soggy?

To prevent the breadcrumb topping from getting soggy, make sure to toast the breadcrumbs in a pan until they’re golden brown before sprinkling them over the top of the mac and cheese.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the mac and cheese up to 24 hours in advance, but be sure to refrigerate it at 40°F (4°C) or below. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it until hot and bubbly.

Q: How do I reheat leftover chicken mac and cheese?

To reheat leftover chicken mac and cheese, place it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until hot and steaming throughout.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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