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Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 19 reviews
  • Author: Zoe
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Salt

Description

This Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting and delicious dish featuring tender chicken breasts, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce. Finished with an optional crunchy breadcrumb topping, this recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 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

Topping (Optional)

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
  3. Create the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring continuously until smooth and lightly golden, about 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the whole milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  4. Add Cheddar: Reduce heat to low and gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Combine: Gently fold the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken into the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
  6. Bake (optional): For a crispy breadcrumb topping, transfer the mac and cheese mixture to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes until the topping is golden and crunchy.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduce the butter amount.
  • Adding vegetables like peas or broccoli can boost the nutrition and add color.
  • If baking, use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Boiling, Sautéing, Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Chicken mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, cheddar cheese pasta, comfort food, baked mac and cheese, easy dinner recipe

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Find it online: https://cookingwithzoe.com/creamy-chicken-mac-and-cheese-recipe/