Chicken Mac and Cheese
This extra creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. It combines juicy, seared chicken with rich, cheesy pasta for a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving a cozy meal at home, this recipe delivers on flavor and convenience. Plus, it’s made in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Chicken Mac and Cheese comes together in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and cheeses creates a rich sauce that elevates this dish to new heights.
- One-Skillet Wonder: With everything cooked in one pan, you’ll save time on cooking and cleaning.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or substitute different types of cheese.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make this dish a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you begin.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Silicone spatula
- Meat mallet
- Large pot
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Skillet: Ideal for searing chicken and creating the cheese sauce all in one pan.
- Silicone Spatula: Perfect for scraping the skillet clean to maximize flavor while preventing scratches on non-stick surfaces.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 1 ½ cups half and half
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ chicken bouillon cube
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon EACH: onion powder, garlic powder, parsley
- ¼ teaspoon EACH: paprika, pepper
For the Chicken
- 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast
- Salt/pepper (to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Pasta
- ½ lb. small or medium shells
For the Cheese Sauce
- ½ cup dry white wine (see notes)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 ¾ cups shredded cheddar cheese (see notes)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Chicken Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Ingredients
Combine the sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup with a spout and set aside. Measure out remaining ingredients before beginning.
Step 2: Boil Water for Pasta
Begin boiling a pot of salted water for the pasta while you proceed with the following steps.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken in half lengthwise to create 2–3 thinner slices. Cover with saran wrap and use the textured side of a meat mallet to pound it to ½ inch thick.
Step 4: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and season each side with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes per side until a golden crust has developed. Set aside, let rest for 10 minutes, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
Step 6: Deglaze the Skillet
Turn off the heat. Add wine to the skillet, then set heat back to medium. Use a silicone spatula to “clean” the bottom and sides of the skillet; this adds more flavor to your sauce. Reduce wine by half (about 4–5 minutes).
Step 7: Make Roux
Melt butter in the skillet, then stir in flour. Cook for 1–2 minutes while stirring continuously until there’s no raw flour smell left.
Step 8: Add Sauce Mixture
Gradually add your sauce mixture in small splashes while stirring continuously. Do this slowly to maintain thickness.
Step 9: Cook Pasta
Bring sauce to a gentle boil, reduce heat, then simmer partially covered while you cook pasta to al dente according to package instructions. Drain once done, stirring occasionally as your sauce cooks.
Step 10: Incorporate Cheese
Reduce heat of sauce to low. Gradually sprinkle in cheese while stirring continuously until fully combined.
Step 11: Combine Everything
Add drained pasta and cooked chicken into the skillet; stir until combined. The pasta will absorb some sauce upon standing. Serve warm!
How to Serve Chicken Mac and Cheese
This creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will make your meal even more delightful.
Family Style
- Serve in a large skillet or bowl so everyone can help themselves. This creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for family meals.
Individual Portions
- Use ramekins or small bowls for individual servings. This is perfect for dinner parties and gives each guest their own portion of creamy goodness.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. This adds a fresh touch and elevates the dish’s presentation.
With Hot Sauce
- Provide hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick. It complements the creaminess of the Chicken Mac and Cheese beautifully.
Paired with Garlic Bread
- Serve with warm garlic bread for dipping. The combination is satisfying and perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
Side Salad
- Offer a simple green salad alongside to balance the richness. A light vinaigrette works well to contrast the creamy pasta.
How to Perfect Chicken Mac and Cheese
To achieve the best Chicken Mac and Cheese, follow these tips that ensure maximum flavor and creaminess in every bite.
- Choose Quality Cheese: Use high-quality cheddar cheese for better melting properties and flavor.
- Do Not Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the hot cheese sauce.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust spices according to your preference for a personal touch.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs and spices over dried ones to enhance flavor.
- Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for unique flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Mac and Cheese
Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Mac and Cheese can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this creamy delight perfectly.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while providing a crunchy texture contrast.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing to balance out the richness of the mac and cheese.
- Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears in olive oil and roast until tender; this adds a lovely earthy flavor.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the main dish.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed garlic green beans are quick to prepare, adding both elegance and flavor.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory mac and cheese.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with balsamic glaze add depth of flavor.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich chicken mac and cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Mac and Cheese, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from average to exceptional. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Stick with cheddar and Parmesan for the creamiest texture.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook pasta just until al dente. It will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
- Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Don’t skip salt and pepper; they enhance flavor.
- Adding cheese too quickly: Sprinkle cheese gradually into the sauce. This ensures a smooth, creamy consistency without clumps.
- Neglecting to rest the chicken: Letting seared chicken rest helps keep it juicy. Cutting it right away can lead to dry meat.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container.
- It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It will keep for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and warm for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover, and reheat in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring between.
- Stovetop: Heat over low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary to loosen up the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Mac and Cheese that can help you perfect your dish.
What type of chicken is best for Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Boneless skinless chicken breast works best as it cooks quickly and stays tender.
Can I use different pasta shapes for Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes! While small shells are ideal, any pasta shape like elbows or cavatappi will work well.
How can I make Chicken Mac and Cheese healthier?
Consider using whole wheat pasta, reduced-fat cheese, or adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli.
Why is my cheese sauce not creamy?
If your sauce is grainy, it may be due to adding cheese too quickly or using low-quality cheese. Gradually add high-quality shredded cheese for better results.
Can I make this Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it ahead, store it in the fridge, or freeze it for later enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
This extra creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with different cheeses or add vegetables for extra nutrition. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is!
Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this extra creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese, a dish that beautifully marries tender, seared chicken with rich, cheesy pasta. Perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings at home, this one-skillet recipe not only delights the taste buds but also simplifies cleanup. In just under an hour, you can create a flavorful meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or personalize it with your favorite veggies and cheeses, this Chicken Mac and Cheese will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
- ½ lb small or medium pasta shells
- 1 ½ cups half and half
- 1 cup chicken broth (or bouillon)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 ¾ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Spices: mustard powder, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, pepper
Instructions
- Slice chicken in half lengthwise; pound to ½ inch thick.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper; sear in olive oil until golden.
- Deglaze skillet with white wine; reduce by half.
- Create a roux by melting butter and adding flour; cook briefly.
- Gradually stir in sauce mixture; bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain.
- Stir in cheeses until melted; combine drained pasta and chicken into the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
