Chicken and Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken and Cheese recipe combines tender chicken with creamy cheddar sauce and pasta for a comforting meal. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s easy to prepare and can be baked for a crispy topping.

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)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Cut the chicken breasts into cubes and season with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the flour and garlic powder, cooking for 1-2 minutes until smooth and slightly bubbling.
4. Step 4: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Step 5: Reduce heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce is smooth.
6. Step 6: Gently fold the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken into the cheese sauce, coating everything evenly.
7. Step 7 (optional): For a crunchy topping, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• Use sharp or extra sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.
• Add cooked vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Substitute chicken thighs if you prefer juicier meat.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. If baked with breadcrumbs, reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells works well in this recipe.

Is it necessary to bake the dish?

Baking is optional and adds a crunchy topping, but the dish is delicious served immediately after combining the pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce.

Chicken and Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 107 reviews

This classic Chicken and Cheese recipe combines tender sautéed chicken breasts with creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Finished with an optional crispy breadcrumb topping baked to golden perfection, this comforting dish is ideal for a hearty family dinner.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Pasta

• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese Sauce

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Topping (Optional)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set aside to use later in the recipe.
2. Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Cube the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet, cooking for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Create the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, stir in the flour and garlic powder, whisking continuously to form a smooth roux. Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring for about 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
4. Add Cheddar: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Combine: Gently fold the cooked macaroni and sautéed chicken into the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the creamy cheddar mixture.
6. Bake (Optional): For a crispy breadcrumb topping, transfer the cheesy chicken and macaroni mixture into an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle the ½ cup breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• The breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
• You can substitute sharp cheddar with a milder cheese or a cheese blend if preferred.
• For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the cheese sauce.
• Ensure chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: chicken and cheese, cheesy chicken pasta, baked macaroni and cheese with chicken, comfort food, easy chicken dinner