Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a heaping bowl of creamy chicken mac and cheese to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. This comfort food classic combines tender elbow macaroni with tender chicken, a rich cheese sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping for an indulgent meal that will leave you asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and cook for about 1-2 minutes until bubbly.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is thickened and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and combined.
- Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.
- If desired, transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if using, and serve hot.
Notes or Tips
- For extra creaminess, you can add a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.
- Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese variations.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
Cooking Techniques
Creating a smooth, velvety cheese sauce is all about whisking. Ensure to whisk constantly when adding the milk to prevent lumps and achieve that creamy texture.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding.
- Can this recipe be made vegetarian? Absolutely! Just skip the chicken and add extra veggies.
- How can I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken mac and cheese is perfect for cozy family dinners or an easy weeknight meal. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every cheesy bite!