One whiff of this Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese and I’m transported to family gatherings filled with laughter and love. There’s something magical about combining tender chunks of chicken with perfectly cooked macaroni, all enveloped in rich, gooey cheese that makes every bite feel like a warm embrace. This dish not only delights the taste buds, but it comes together quickly, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s effortlessly customizable—add your favorite veggies or a blend of cheeses to keep every family member happy. So, are you ready to dive into a creamy bowl of comfort that feels just like home?
Why is this mac and cheese special?
Creaminess: The lush, velvety cheese sauce makes every bite melt in your mouth, elevating comfort food to new heights.
Customizable: With options to swap in your favorite cheeses or veggies, this dish adapts to suit all tastes and dietary needs.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip this up in no time, ensuring less fuss and more family time.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves mac and cheese! This hearty version with chicken will surely put smiles on every face at the table.
Try it alongside my Lazy Chicken Cheese for another comfort food favorite!
Chicken Mac and Cheese Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this delicious dish!
For the Pasta
- Elbow Macaroni – The main structure of your dish; you can substitute any short pasta if you prefer.
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Adds heartiness and flavor; for a time saver, consider rotisserie chicken as a handy swap.
For the Cheese Sauce
- Butter – Essential for sautéing and creating the creamy base; feel free to use olive oil or margarine as an alternative.
- Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce to perfection; for gluten-free diets, use gluten-free flour instead.
- Milk – Gives the sauce its creamy consistency; any milk type works, but using cream will enhance richness.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – A key flavor contributor; explore using gouda or mozzarella for a delightful twist.
- Salt/Pepper – Basic seasonings that enhance the dish’s flavor; adjust according to your taste preference.
For the Crunchy Topping (optional)
- Breadcrumbs – Perfect for adding a crunchy texture when baked; feel free to omit if you love the creamy stovetop version.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, allowing any excess water to drip off while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add cubed chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until it is golden brown and fully cooked through, with no pink remaining in the center. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Make Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, add 2 additional tablespoons of butter and melt it over medium heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour until smooth, letting it cook for about 1 minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring continuously for about 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and bubbles gently.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the thickened sauce. Stir constantly until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. If you desire an extra creamy texture, feel free to add a splash more milk.
Step 5: Combine
Gently fold in the cooked elbow macaroni and sautéed chicken into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated in that luscious, creamy mixture. Stir everything together for about 1-2 minutes over low heat so all flavors meld beautifully in this cheesy chicken mac and cheese.
Step 6: Bake (optional)
If you love a crispy topping, scrape the creamy mixture into an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top, then transfer the dish to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crunchy, adding an enticing texture to your comforting chicken mac and cheese.
Step 7: Serve
Once ready, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, adding a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy your deliciously creamy chicken mac and cheese with family and friends for a delightful meal!
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
Nothing completes a comforting meal quite like thoughtful pairings that enhance its richness and flavor.
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Garlic Bread: This crusty favorite provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy chicken mac and cheese, making every bite irresistible. Its buttery, garlicky goodness perfectly complements the dish.
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Seasonal Roasted Vegetables: A vibrant mix of roasted veggies like broccoli and carrots adds delightful textures and earthy flavors, bringing freshness to your plate. Their slight sweetness balances the creamy richness beautifully.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing bite that balances the heaviness of mac and cheese. The savory notes of anchovies in the dressing pair well with the dish’s cheesy flavor.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, creamy coleslaw adds a satisfying crunch alongside the gooey dish. Its tangy dressing cuts through the richness, making it a delightful contrast.
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Apple Sauce: A sweet and tangy apple sauce is a surprisingly delightful match. Its bright flavor cleanses the palate between bites of rich, cheesy pasta.
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Sparkling Lemonade: For a refreshing drink option, serve sparkling lemonade. Its zesty and bubbly nature enhances the dish’s comforting vibes while providing a citrusy kick.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm chocolate chip cookies are a classic option. The sweet, gooey treat contrasts perfectly with the savory flavors of the main dish, creating a satisfying end to your meal.
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Ice Cream Sundae: Finish with a fun dessert! The cold, creamy ice cream balances the warm mac and cheese, while toppings like hot fudge and nuts add a playful touch.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Mac and Cheese
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s best to reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. For best results, portion it out before freezing for easier reheating later.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a bit of milk if it seems dry!
Tips: To keep that creamy texture, avoid reheating in too high heat, which can cause the cheese to separate. Enjoy your comforting chicken mac and cheese!
Chicken Mac and Cheese Variations
Feel free to get creative with this cheesy delight to match your family’s taste and dietary preferences!
- Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk, and swap cheese for a plant-based alternative for a creamy delight without dairy.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in sautéed spinach, broccoli, or peas for added nutrition and color; it’s a wonderful way to incorporate veggies!
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked gouda or add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a rich, smoky twist that elevates the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to heat things up; the fiery flavors are sure to please heat seekers.
- Extra Crunch: Top with crushed tortilla chips instead of breadcrumbs for a fun, crispy finish that takes your mac and cheese to the next level.
- Luxe Flavor: For a gourmet touch, mix in a tablespoon of truffle oil before serving; it brings an elegant richness to this classic comfort food.
- Sausage Addition: Sauté crumbled Italian sausage with the chicken for a hearty, protein-packed version that adds a flavorful punch.
- Swap Pastas: Replace elbow macaroni with cavatappi or penne for a different texture that catches every bit of that luscious cheese sauce.
To create more comforting experiences at home, you might also love my Sweet Sour Chicken or try whipping up my Creamy Chicken and Buttered Noodles. Enjoy personalizing your creamy chicken mac and cheese!
Expert Tips for Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Perfect Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente; overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that won’t hold up in the creamy sauce.
- Chicken Check: Always ensure the chicken is fully cooked through to avoid any food safety issues; it should be white inside with no pink.
- Cheese Variety: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses; blending cheddar with gouda or mozzarella can create an irresistible flavor profile for your chicken mac and cheese.
- Sauce Secrets: For an extra creamy sauce, consider adding a dollop of cream cheese or replacing part of the milk with heavy cream.
- Baking Tips: If baking, use a dish that conducts heat evenly for a perfectly golden top and check halfway to ensure even browning.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cheese sauce and sauté the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in airtight containers. Additionally, you can cook the macaroni and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking before refrigerating. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop while cooking the pasta until heated through. Combine everything in a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbling and golden. This way, you’ll have a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal effort!
Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of macaroni should I use for this recipe?
You can use elbow macaroni, which is the classic choice, providing the best texture. However, if you prefer, substitute it with any short pasta, such as penne or shell, which will hold the creamy cheese sauce beautifully.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Absolutely! Store any leftover creamy chicken mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
Can I freeze chicken mac and cheese?
Yes, you can! For optimal preservation, transfer your cooled and portioned chicken mac and cheese into a tightly sealed container and freeze for up to 2 months. When it’s time to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding milk if needed for creaminess.
How can I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
To avoid graininess in your cheese sauce, always ensure to use freshly grated cheese, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the final texture. Also, gradually add the cheese to the warm sauce while stirring continuously over low heat. Keeping the heat low prevents the cheese from separating, ensuring a silky, smooth sauce.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this creamy chicken mac and cheese gluten-free! Simply swap out the regular flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour when making your cheese sauce. Additionally, ensure your pasta is certified gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious meal suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals!
Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese: Your Cozy Family Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add cubed chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Reduce heat to low, add shredded cheddar cheese, and stir until melted and creamy.
- Fold in elbow macaroni and sautéed chicken, stirring gently to coat everything in the sauce for about 1-2 minutes.
- For a crunchy topping, place mixture in an oven-safe dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
- Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve warm.
