If you have a craving for comfort food that feels like a warm hug, then this Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender pieces of juicy chicken mingling with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, all enveloped in a lusciously smooth, cheesy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. This dish is the ultimate soul food that’s both satisfying and ridiculously easy to throw together on a weeknight, yet impressive enough to share with family and friends. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with protein, making it a meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this creamy, dreamy dish. Each item plays an essential role—from the sharp cheddar delivering bold cheesy notes to the butter and flour combo that creates the magical base of the sauce. Fresh and simple, these ingredients come together quickly to give you maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: About 1 pound, diced and seasoned to add tender, juicy protein.
- Elbow macaroni: 8 ounces, the perfect bite-sized pasta that holds the sauce beautifully.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 2 cups shredded; it’s what gives the dish its rich, tangy cheesiness.
- Whole milk: 2 cups, to create a creamy and velvety sauce texture.
- Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons, essential for sautéing and making the roux.
- All-purpose flour: ¼ cup, the thickening agent for the cheese sauce.
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon, adding a subtle savory undertone.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, bringing out all the layered flavors.
- Breadcrumbs (optional): ½ cup, for a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by boiling salted water and cooking your elbow macaroni until it’s perfectly al dente—firm to the bite but tender. This texture will hold up nicely when mixed with the creamy cheese sauce later, preventing it from turning mushy. Once done, drain and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt some butter over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes seasoned simply with salt and pepper and cook until they’re golden and fully cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step ensures your chicken is juicy and flavorful without being overwhelmed by the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Roux and Start the Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt additional butter. Stir in the flour, whisking constantly until it forms a smooth paste. Slowly drizzle in the milk while continuing to whisk, allowing it to thicken gently over 4 to 5 minutes. This silky base is the secret to a creamy, velvety sauce that clings to every pasta piece and chicken bite.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and gradually toss in your shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until everything melts smoothly together. The sharpness of the cheddar is what really makes this mac and cheese stand out, delivering that bold, cheesy punch that’s impossible to resist.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Gently fold in the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken into the luscious cheese sauce. Make sure every noodle and chicken chunk is generously coated. This is where the magic of the Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe truly comes alive — creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty bites of chicken.
Step 6: Optional Crunchy Topping
If you like a bit of texture contrast, transfer your mac and cheese mixture to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly on top and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, until the topping is golden and crisp. This step transforms your dish, adding a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives instantly brightens up this cozy dish, adding a pop of fresh color and a subtle herbal note. For a little extra indulgence, a light drizzle of truffle oil can be a decadent finish that takes this comfort food to the next level.
Side Dishes
Pair your creamy chicken mac and cheese with something green and crisp to balance the richness. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed broccoli tossed with lemon juice offers a fresh, vibrant contrast for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins topped with breadcrumbs for personal crispy servings. You can also turn leftovers into irresistible mac and cheese stuffed bell peppers or crisp up spoonfuls in a skillet to make crunchy mac and cheese bites perfect for snacking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe tastes just as good the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to give it a gentle stir before reheating to keep the texture smooth and creamy.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the quality and texture.
Reheating
Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to refresh the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and maintain that luscious, cheesy consistency you fell in love with.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic for this recipe, feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra stretch or gouda for a smoky touch. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well to keep your sauce creamy.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux, and use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when sautéing the chicken to bring a gentle kick. You can also stir in some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce for more heat.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of fresh?
Definitely! Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly and can actually save you time. Just add it during the final step, folding it gently into the cheese sauce so it warms through.
What’s the best way to prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Low and slow is the key! Keep the heat low when melting the cheese and add it gradually. Stir constantly to allow the cheese to melt smoothly into the sauce without separating or becoming grainy.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe becomes one of your ultimate go-to comfort meals. It’s simple, satisfying, and deeply comforting — a perfect way to bring family and friends together around the dinner table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for that luscious, cheesy goodness and hearty chicken that makes this dish truly special.
Print
Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe featuring tender sautéed chicken breasts, al dente elbow macaroni, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce. This easy stovetop dish can be finished in the oven with a golden breadcrumb topping for added crunch.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
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
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping (Optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, following package instructions. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Season cubed chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
- Make Roux and Sauce: In the same skillet, add additional butter if needed, then stir in flour to form a smooth paste (roux). Slowly whisk in whole milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in garlic powder.
- Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low and gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine: Fold the cooked macaroni and sautéed chicken gently into the cheese sauce until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
- Bake (Optional): For a crunchy breadcrumb topping, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar for the best cheese flavor and creaminess.
- The optional breadcrumb topping adds a nice texture contrast but can be omitted for a softer dish.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding it to the sauce.
- Whole milk provides the creamiest sauce; low-fat milk can be used but will be less rich.
- For quicker prep, cook pasta and chicken simultaneously on the stovetop.
