Chicken and Mac and Cheese Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, and Hearty
Introduction
Chicken and mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food that brings together creamy, cheesy pasta and tender, flavorful chicken. This dish has become a favorite for family dinners, casual gatherings, and weeknight meals because it combines richness, protein, and a satisfying texture in every bite. Unlike plain mac and cheese, adding chicken transforms it into a hearty, complete meal that appeals to both kids and adults.
The creamy cheese sauce clings to perfectly cooked macaroni, while chunks of seasoned chicken add protein and depth. Homemade versions allow full control over ingredients, ensuring freshness, flavor, and the ability to customize spiciness, richness, and texture. The combination of pasta, melted cheese, and tender chicken creates a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to prepare.
Ingredients Needed
The following ingredients create a delicious and creamy chicken mac and cheese. Adjustments can be made to match taste preferences and dietary needs.
| Ingredient | Approximate Calories per Serving |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 200 |
| Chicken breast, cooked and diced | 165 |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 120 |
| Milk | 80 |
| Butter | 100 |
| All purpose flour | 50 |
| Garlic powder | 5 |
| Onion powder | 5 |
| Salt | 0 |
| Black pepper | 0 |
| Optional: paprika | 5 |
| Optional: breadcrumbs | 50 |
| Optional: Parmesan cheese | 20 |
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Begin by cooking the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, season chicken breast with salt, black pepper, and optional paprika. Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until golden and fully cooked, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in flour to create a smooth roux and cook for one to two minutes. Slowly add milk while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Add shredded cheddar cheese and optional Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Combine cooked macaroni and diced chicken with the cheese sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat evenly. For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra cheese on top. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes until golden and bubbly. For stovetop preparation, serve immediately after combining pasta, chicken, and sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Chicken and mac and cheese can be customized in many ways. Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or mix in cooked bacon or sausage for added flavor. Vegetables such as broccoli, peas, or bell peppers can be added to increase nutrition and color.
Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for varied flavor and texture. Adjust milk or cheese amounts to achieve creaminess or richness according to preference. Adding spices like cayenne, smoked paprika, or chili flakes introduces a gentle heat for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
Herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives can enhance aroma and flavor. Layering toppings such as breadcrumbs, Parmesan, or crushed crackers before baking creates a crunchy golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Nutritional Information
Chicken and mac and cheese provides a balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Pasta contributes energy-sustaining carbohydrates, while chicken and cheese add protein for muscle repair and satiety. Butter and cheese supply fats that create a rich, creamy texture.
This dish is also nutrient-dense, offering calcium from dairy and vitamins from added vegetables. Adjusting ingredients allows flexibility in calorie and fat content. Using low-fat milk or cheese and adding more vegetables can create a lighter, healthier version while maintaining flavor and creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken and mac and cheese is best served warm and can be paired with a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans for a balanced plate. For casual meals, serve it with garlic bread or rolls to make the dish more filling.
Garnish with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of paprika, or additional cheese to enhance presentation and flavor. Individual ramekins can be used for a restaurant-style experience. This dish also works well as a make-ahead meal; simply refrigerate and reheat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
Baking vs Stovetop Preparation
Baking chicken and mac and cheese creates a crunchy top layer and allows flavors to meld, while stovetop preparation is faster and ensures maximum creaminess. Both methods produce delicious results, so the choice depends on convenience, desired texture, and presentation. Baked versions are ideal for gatherings, while stovetop versions are perfect for weeknight meals.
Chicken and Mac and Cheese Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, and Hearty
Course: Blog4
servings15
minutes25
minutes550
kcalIngredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping
Optional: 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a smooth roux. Cook for one to two minutes.
- Gradually add milk while whisking until sauce thickens.
- Stir in cheddar and optional Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine cooked macaroni and chicken with cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
- For baked version, transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra cheese on top, and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve immediately for stovetop version.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or bell peppers for nutrition and color.
Adjust cheese amounts for extra creaminess or richness.
Spices like cayenne or smoked paprika can add gentle heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken
Yes, using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. Dice it before mixing with pasta and sauce.
Can I freeze chicken and mac and cheese
Yes, freeze before baking for best results. Bake from frozen with extra time to ensure even heating.
What type of pasta works best
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but penne or rotini also work well.
Can I make it spicy
Yes, add cayenne, smoked paprika, or chili flakes to the cheese sauce.
Can I add vegetables
Absolutely, broccoli, peas, bell peppers, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition and color.
Conclusion
Chicken and mac and cheese is a comforting, hearty, and versatile dish that satisfies cravings while providing a balanced meal. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a family favorite. Its adaptability allows for endless variations, from extra cheesy versions to nutrient-packed options with vegetables and spices. Preparing this dish at home ensures freshness, flavor, and control over ingredients while creating a meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Mastering chicken and mac and cheese opens the door to creativity in the kitchen, offering a dish that is both satisfying and memorable for any occasion.
