Catch the whiff of creamy goodness that wafts from a bubbling pot of chicken and mac and cheese, where tender pasta meets juicy chunks of chicken in an embrace of velvety cheese sauce. Picture this dish on a cold evening, with its golden crust beckoning you from the oven like a warm hug after a long day.

Imagine the laughter around your dinner table as friends dig in, fighting over the last bites while reminiscing about childhood comforts. This dish isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia wrapped in gooey goodness, perfect for cozy nights or celebratory feasts. You won’t want to miss out on this flavor-packed experience that brings everyone together.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken and mac and cheese is easy to prepare even on busy weeknights
The rich flavors will satisfy any comfort food craving
Its inviting golden color makes it visually appealing on any dinner table
You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices for extra flair

Sharing this dish with my family always leads to enthusiastic requests for seconds (or thirds!). I’ll never forget my niece declaring it “the best thing ever” while wielding her fork like a trophy.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts will do; they should be fresh for optimal flavor.
Macaroni Pasta: Elbow macaroni works best; it holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.
Milk: Whole milk is ideal for creaminess; skim milk just won’t cut it here.
Butter: Unsalted butter enhances the flavor without adding extra saltiness.
Flour: All-purpose flour thickens your cheese sauce perfectly—no lumps allowed!
Garlic Powder: A pinch adds depth; don’t skip this simple yet magical ingredient.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste as you go for perfection!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Chicken: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the boneless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before placing them in a baking dish.

Bake Until Juicy: Bake the seasoned chicken for about 25-30 minutes until cooked through. Let it rest before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Cook the Pasta: While the chicken bakes, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente but firm enough to hold its shape.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Stir in flour quickly to form a roux, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth.

Add Cheddar Goodness: Once your mixture thickens slightly, add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring continuously until melted into a creamy sauce.

Toss Everything Together: Combine cooked macaroni with chopped chicken in a large mixing bowl. Pour over your luscious cheese sauce, stirring gently until evenly coated.

Add Crunchy Topping: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over top before baking again at 375°F (190°C) for another 20 minutes until golden brown.

Enjoy every creamy bite of your homemade chicken and mac and cheese! It’s comfort food at its finest—perfectly cheesy with hints of nostalgia blended into each mouthful.

You Must Know

Chicken and mac and cheese is a comforting classic that combines creamy cheese with tender chicken
This dish is perfect for family dinners and can be customized with your favorite ingredients
The aromas of melted cheese will fill your kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing a velvety cheese sauce for the best results.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different cheeses like gouda or cheddar, add seasonal veggies, or spice it up with hot sauce for a kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve that perfect creamy texture, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded
Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting
Always taste your cheese sauce before mixing it with pasta; adjusting seasoning at this stage makes a world of difference

I remember making chicken and mac and cheese for a family gathering, only to find out my cousin was lactose intolerant! I quickly whipped up a dairy-free version using cashew cream, and it was an enormous hit!

FAQs

FAQ

What type of chicken should I use for chicken and mac and cheese?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are best for tenderness and quick cooking.

Can I make chicken and mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge until baking time.

How can I make my mac and cheese extra cheesy?

Mix different types of cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan for an ooey-gooey experience.