Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese
Indulge in the comforting flavors of creamy chicken and mac and cheese. This delightful dish combines tender, juicy chicken with al dente macaroni enveloped in a rich cheddar cheese sauce. Topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, it’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, this recipe will transport you to comfort food heaven with every gooey bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente (about 7 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- 2. Cook the chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; sauté until golden brown (7-10 minutes).
- 3. Create the cheese sauce: In the same skillet, melt remaining butter, stir in flour until smooth, then gradually whisk in milk until thickened (around 5 minutes). Add garlic powder and shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- 4. Combine everything: In a large bowl, mix cooked macaroni, sautéed chicken, and cheese sauce thoroughly.
- 5. Add topping & bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mixture into a greased baking dish, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, sprinkle on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg