Description
Chicken and mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta for a dish that warms both the heart and soul. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and guarantees smiles around the table. With a golden crust and gooey interior, it’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings back cherished memories.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Sauté seasoned chicken breasts until golden brown, about 6 minutes per side. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter over low heat; whisk in flour until combined. Gradually add milk while stirring until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in shredded cheddar until melted; season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine cooked macaroni, chicken, and cheese sauce in a bowl; mix well.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish; top with breadcrumbs if desired. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg