Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe

Chicken Mac and Cheese is a satisfying and comforting dish that combines the hearty flavors of tender chicken with the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a warm, hearty meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this homemade Chicken Mac and Cheese is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients for Chicken Mac and Cheese

To make the perfect Chicken Mac and Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (use leftover or rotisserie chicken for ease)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar is recommended for extra flavor)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (adds a creamy texture)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• 2 cups milk (whole milk is best for creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening the sauce)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (adds depth to the sauce)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried mustard (enhances the cheesy flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste (season as needed)

this RECIPE

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, make sure you have these essential kitchen tools on hand:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Whisk for blending the sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for the cheeses
• Knife and cutting board for chopping ingredients

How to Prepare Chicken Mac and Cheese

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water. This prevents the noodles from sticking together while you prepare the other components.

2. Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. If you’re using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, you can skip this step and simply dice it up for later. Set the chicken aside on a plate.

3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

4. Make the Cheese Sauce

To make the creamy cheese sauce, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the cooked onions and garlic, stirring constantly to combine. Let the flour cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw taste. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture starts to thicken, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is thick. Add 1 teaspoon of dried mustard to the sauce for an extra tangy flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary.

5. Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Cheese Sauce

With the cheese sauce ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked pasta and diced chicken to the skillet, stirring until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the cheese sauce. Make sure every bite is packed with cheesy, creamy goodness.

6. Serve the Chicken Mac and Cheese

Once everything is mixed together, serve the Chicken Mac and Cheese hot, straight from the skillet. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Mac and Cheese!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure the pasta is cooked al dente to avoid mushy macaroni when mixed with the sauce.
• Not whisking the sauce properly: To avoid lumps in your cheese sauce, whisk continuously when adding the milk to the flour mixture.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season each layer of the dish—chicken, onions, and cheese sauce—to maximize flavor.

Tips for the Creamiest Cheese Sauce

• Use whole milk: For the creamiest sauce, whole milk works best. You can also substitute with half-and-half or heavy cream if you want a richer texture.
• Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that prevent them from melting smoothly. For the best results, shred your own cheddar and mozzarella.
• Add the cheese off the heat: Once your sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat before adding the cheese. This helps prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.

Variations of Chicken Mac and Cheese

You can easily customize this Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe by adding different ingredients:

• Vegetable Add-ins: Stir in cooked broccoli, peas, or spinach for a nutritious boost.
• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a unique flavor profile.

How to Serve Chicken Mac and Cheese

To elevate your Chicken Mac and Cheese presentation, try serving it in individual ramekins or oven-safe dishes. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs on top and broil for a couple of minutes to achieve a golden, crispy finish. Pair this dish with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore the creaminess of the sauce and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.

For longer storage, you can freeze Chicken Mac and Cheese for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ: Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, simply swap the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.

Can I make Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then refrigerate it for up to a day before reheating.

What can I use instead of chicken? You can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

conclusion

For the best comfort food experience, try this Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe today! Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-follow recipes.

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