Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting classic that combines tender chicken, cheesy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. This recipe delivers rich flavor with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.

Ingredients

• 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until no longer pink in the center, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let rest, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly.
4. Step 4: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and is smooth, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Step 6: Add the cooked macaroni and diced chicken to the cheese sauce, gently folding everything together until well coated and heated through.
7. Step 7: Serve immediately for best texture and flavor. Enjoy your creamy chicken mac and cheese!

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of cheeses, like mozzarella and gouda, for a different flavor profile.
• For a smoky twist, add cooked bacon or smoked paprika to the sauce.
• Swap whole milk for half-and-half or cream for an even richer, creamier sauce.
• Cook the chicken in the sauce after dicing for extra moisture and flavor.
• Add steamed broccoli or peas for a boost of vegetables.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but still reheats well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, shells, rotini, or penne work well in place of elbow macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and consider adding cooked mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or a plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian version.

Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 106 reviews

This creamy chicken mac and cheese is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender cooked chicken breasts, elbow macaroni, and a rich, cheesy sauce made with sharp cheddar and whole milk. It’s a perfect meal for family dinners, combining simple ingredients with classic flavors for a satisfying and delicious result.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein

• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)

Pasta

• 8 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

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

Instructions

1. Cook the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then dice or shred into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the pasta: While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the cheese sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it bubbles and turns light golden. Slowly pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cheese and season: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with additional garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Combine pasta and chicken: Add the cooked macaroni and diced chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is well coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal. Optional garnishes include extra shredded cheese, chopped parsley, or a dash of hot sauce.

Notes

• For extra creaminess, use half-and-half instead of whole milk.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk.
• To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
• Add cooked vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrition and color.

Keywords: chicken mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, cheddar chicken pasta, comfort food, dinner recipe, easy family meal