Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese

Update : February 1, 2026

why make this recipe

Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with creamy cheese and pasta. It’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The rich flavors and gooey texture make it a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

how to make Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
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)

Directions:

Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a pot and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, add a little more butter. Stir in the flour and mix until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens (about 4-5 minutes).
Add Cheddar: Reduce the heat and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine: Gently fold in the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken until everything is coated in the cheese sauce.
Bake (optional): If you like a crunchy topping, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish. Top with breadcrumbs and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.

how to serve Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serve Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese hot from the skillet or from the oven. You can garnish it with some additional shredded cheese or chopped herbs like parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

how to store Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the dish is too thick, you can add a splash of milk while reheating.

tips to make Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese

Make sure to season the chicken well with salt and pepper for better flavor.
For an extra cheesy dish, consider mixing different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can use whole wheat pasta or reduce the amount of cheese.

variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables such as broccoli or spinach for added nutrition. Alternatively, you can spice it up with some diced jalapeños or hot sauce for those who like a bit of heat.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken or any pre-cooked chicken. Just add it to the cheese sauce when combining.

2. Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

3. How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, you can skip the chicken and add more vegetables instead. Mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers would work great in this recipe.