why make this recipe
Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting and delicious dish that brings joy to any meal. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and pasta makes it a hit for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a satisfying meal without a lot of hassle.
how to make Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
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
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
- Create the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, add more butter. Stir in flour until smooth, then slowly whisk in milk until thickened (about 4-5 minutes).
- Add Cheddar: Lower heat and gradually stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Gently fold in cooked pasta and sautéed chicken until coated in the cheese sauce.
- Bake (optional): For a crunchy topping, transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
how to serve Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
Serve Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese hot from the stovetop or oven. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the cheese. You can also sprinkle some extra cheddar on top or add a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
how to store Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to put it in a freezer-safe container.
tips to make Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
- For a creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of whole milk.
- Feel free to add veggies like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or gouda, for varied flavors.
variation
You can easily adapt this recipe by using different types of pasta, such as rotini or shells. Also, try adding bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover cooked chicken works great. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the cheese sauce.
2. Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables, and make the sauce with vegetable broth.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, just reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Boil salted water and cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
- In the same skillet, add more butter. Stir in flour until smooth, then slowly whisk in milk until thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Lower heat and gradually stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
- Gently fold in cooked pasta and sautéed chicken until coated in the cheese sauce.
- For a crunchy topping, transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.