Delightful Chicken and Mac and Cheese Recipe

Name: Delightful Chicken and Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 cups whole milk; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; Salt and pepper to taste

By Maria Del

March 19, 2025

0

27

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

When you think of ultimate comfort food, what springs to mind? If your answer is chicken and mac and cheese, you’re in for a treat! This dish wraps you up like a cozy blanket on a cold winter’s day. Picture tender chunks of juicy chicken nestled among creamy, cheesy pasta that practically begs you to take another bite.

Growing up, my family had a tradition of Friday night dinners where laughter echoed louder than the clattering of forks. It was during one of those evenings that I first tasted this heavenly concoction. The aroma wafted through our kitchen—a blend of melted cheese and savory chicken—making it impossible to resist. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish always steals the show.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful chicken and mac and cheese recipe makes meal prep a breeze while tantalizing your taste buds
Rich flavors blend beautifully for an unforgettable dish
Visually stunning with its golden crust, it’s perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners
Versatile enough to customize based on your pantry staples

A small paragraph of a Personal anecdote sharing an experience with the recipe

I still remember my friend’s face lighting up when I served this dish at our potluck—it was pure joy!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender cuts work best; feel free to use thighs if you prefer more flavor.
Elbow Macaroni: Classic shape for this dish; it holds onto the cheesy goodness perfectly.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Go for high-quality cheddar; it adds depth to the creamy sauce.
Milk: Whole milk creates a richer sauce; don’t skimp on creaminess here!
Butter: Essential for richness; I recommend unsalted butter for better control over seasoning.
Flour: All-purpose flour thickens the sauce beautifully; no lumps allowed!
Panko Breadcrumbs: For that crunchy topping; they add texture that complements the creamy pasta.
Spices (Salt & Pepper): Basic but essential; season generously according to your taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large pot to boil water for cooking macaroni. Salt your water generously—it should taste like the sea! Once boiling, add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions.

While your pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on all sides—about 5-7 minutes—and ensure they’re cooked through by slicing into one piece.

In another saucepan over medium-low heat, melt butter until bubbly but not browned. Whisk in flour slowly to create a roux—cook for about 2 minutes until it bubbles gently. Gradually whisk in milk while continuing to stir until smooth.

Add shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce mixture slowly while stirring constantly until completely melted—this is where magic happens! Stir in cooked macaroni followed by cooked chicken until everything is combined perfectly.

Pour mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs evenly across the surface—this will create that coveted crunchy topping as it bakes!

Bake uncovered in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly golden brown on top. Allow cooling slightly before serving—trust me; you want those flavors to mingle before diving in!

Serve warm alongside some steamed vegetables or salad if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy every bite of this marvelous creation—you’ve just made one fantastic meal!

You Must Know

This delightful chicken and mac and cheese dish combines creamy goodness with savory flavors, making it perfect for family dinners
Its cheesy aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to the table
Plus, it’s an easy one-pot meal that cuts down on cleanup time

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken first to lock in flavors, then boil pasta while preparing a creamy cheese sauce. This order ensures everything comes together seamlessly and deliciously.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cheddar cheese for gouda or add veggies like broccoli for extra nutrition. Personalizing your dish can make it even more enjoyable and satisfying.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F
Avoid overcooking pasta; al dente is best for texture
When mixing cheeses, combine different varieties for depth of flavor

Sharing dinner with friends made my chicken and mac and cheese unforgettable; their laughter echoed around the table as they devoured every last bite!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Using frozen chicken works, but thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

What type of cheese is best for mac and cheese?

A blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella creates a rich and flavorful mac and cheese.

How do I make my mac and cheese creamier?

Add more milk or cream while stirring; this keeps the sauce smooth and velvety.

Print