Craving a hearty, comforting dish that speaks to your soul? Look no further than our Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese. This delectable recipe fuses classic comfort food flavors with a touch of richness from juicy chicken pieces. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy and impress.
Ingredients
Equipments
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Baking dish
- Whisk
How to Make Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese – Step By Step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and add the macaroni. Cook until it’s al dente according to the package directions. This usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you work on the other components of the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, take boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season them with salt and pepper. Heat some olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then cook the chicken until golden on both sides and cooked through. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same saucepan, melt some butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once the sauce begins to thicken, remove it from the heat and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until you have a smooth, creamy sauce.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni, chicken slices, and cheese sauce. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta and chicken are fully coated. Bake for 20 minutes until the top is bubbling golden brown. Serve immediately and enjoy!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
Plate the Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese straight from the oven to maximize flavor and texture. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. Serve hot for the ultimate gooey and comforting experience.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding crispy bacon bits on top before baking. You can also sprinkle some breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping. If you like a bit of spice, mix in some chili flakes or cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce.
Protein-Packed Power Bowl: High Protein Version
For those looking to boost their protein intake, consider adding more chicken or substituting the pasta with legume-based alternatives. You can also mix in some peas or broccoli to add nutrition without compromising on flavor.
Low-Carb Dream: Turn it Keto-Friendly
If you’re watching your carb intake, switch the pasta out for cauliflower florets or zucchini spirals. This won’t just cut down on carbs but will maintain that creamy richness thanks to the cheese and chicken.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
FAQs
- Can I use a different cheese?
- Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses. Gouda or Gruyère work exceptionally well.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it. Just be sure to bake it slightly longer if it’s cold from the fridge.
- Is there a vegan version?
- You can use plant-based cheeses and chicken substitutes to make it vegan.
A Delicious Farewell: Final Thoughts on Our Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
With its melty cheese and tender chicken, this Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is a dish you’ll want to make on repeat. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below, and feel free to share this delight with family and friends!
Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- macaroni
- shredded cheddar cheese
- mozzarella cheese
- chicken breasts
- butter
- milk
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Boil a large pot of salted water and add the macaroni. Cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook in a heated saucepan with olive oil over medium heat until done, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from pan and slice.
- Melt butter in the same saucepan, whisking in flour to form a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thick. Remove from heat and add cheeses, mixing until smooth.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, mix pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbling and golden.