Creamy Chicken and Macaroni
Creamy Chicken and Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked macaroni in a rich, cheesy sauce. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs, this dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this delightful recipe will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds.
- 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 (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through.
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with sautéed chicken and pour the cheese sauce over it. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg