Description
Chicken and mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken with creamy, cheesy macaroni. This dish features a golden-brown crust and gooey cheese, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s sure to evoke fond memories while creating new ones. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers, this versatile recipe delivers deliciousness every time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (dry)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic; cook until golden brown (about 6 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and let rest.
- In the same skillet, melt butter, whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk while whisking until it thickens. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Chop the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, chicken, and cheese sauce; mix well.
- Transfer to the baking dish; top with breadcrumbs if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Allow to cool for five minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg