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Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese

A comforting dish that combines tender chicken with creamy cheese and pasta, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Boil salted water in a pot and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. 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.
  3. 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).
  4. Reduce the heat and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Gently fold in the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken until everything is coated in the cheese sauce.
  6. 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.

Notes

Serve hot and garnish with additional cheese or herbs. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Author: jessica-baker
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: None

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: mac and cheese, comfort food, chicken pasta, family dinner, cheesy pasta