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Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe - avarecipes.com Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe - avarecipes.com Print

Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe

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Chicken Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that combines juicy, seasoned chicken with tender pasta and a rich cheese sauce made from cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe offers the option to bake the mac and cheese with a crispy Panko breadcrumb topping for extra texture. Whether made on the stovetop or baked, this hearty meal is sure to satisfy with its savory, cheesy goodness!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced or shredded
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or any short pasta
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 3 cups milk or half-and-half
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)

For Baked Chicken Mac and Cheese (Optional):

  • ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (if baking). Cook pasta according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until golden and fully cooked, then set aside.
  • In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Add cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and mustard powder. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  • Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce. Transfer to a greased baking dish if baking.
  • (Optional) Mix Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, mix in cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables.
  • Adjust the cheese blend to suit your preferences (try gouda or pepper jack).

Nutrition

Find it online: https://avarecipes.com/chicken-mac-and-cheese-recipe/