When a chilly evening sets in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting allure of a creamy bowl of Chicken Mac and Cheese. The thought of golden, bubbly cheese melting into tender macaroni and spicy, marinated chicken is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I stumbled upon this delightful fusion of flavors after a hectic day, determined to create something that would not only ease my stress but also satisfy my family’s cravings for a cozy dinner.
This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize the spice levels and toss in your favorite vegetables, making it a dish that caters to your unique taste. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a night in, this Chicken Mac and Cheese is sure to be the crowd-pleaser you’ve been searching for. Join me as we dive into a comforting world of creamy goodness that’s perfect for any occasion!
Why is this chicken mac and cheese special?
Creamy, dreamy texture: Each bite features a luscious cheese sauce that envelops tender macaroni and spicy chicken, creating pure comfort.
Customizable to your palate: Adjust seasoning and spice levels to suit your family’s taste, whether you crave mild or fiery hot.
Hearty and filling: Packed with protein and flavor, this dish satisfies even the heartiest appetites, making it perfect for dinner gatherings.
Versatile meal option: Effortlessly switch up the ingredients with favorite vegetables or different pasta shapes for a refreshing twist.
Quick and easy preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you can whip up this dish in no time, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Embrace the homey vibes of this homemade chicken mac and cheese that’s quick enough for busy days yet delightful for all occasions!
Chicken Mac and Cheese Ingredients
• Dive into the creamy comfort with these essential ingredients!
For the Pasta
• Elbow macaroni – The classic choice that hugs the cheese sauce beautifully.
For the Chicken
• Boneless chicken breast – Provides protein and can be spiced to your heat preference.
• Neutral oil – Essential for marinating and cooking the chicken without overpowering flavors.
• Spices (garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, salt, red chili powder) – Use them to create a flavor-packed marinade; adjust according to your love for spice.
For the Cheese Sauce
• Unsalted butter – The base for your roux to create a rich cheese sauce.
• Flour – Thickens the sauce to the perfect creamy consistency.
• Minced garlic – Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth to the sauce.
• Milk – Full-fat for that indulgently creamy texture.
• Heavy cream – Enhances the richness of the sauce, making it extra luxurious.
• Cream cheese – Adds a velvety layer of creaminess to the overall dish.
• Dijon mustard – A hint of tangy flavor that brightens the sauce.
• Cheese mix (red Leicester, cheddar, mozzarella) – Freshly grated cheese ensures a dreamy melt; the ultimate cheesy experience.
For Finishing Touches
• Dark soy sauce – Adds a depth of flavor to your marinade.
• White vinegar – Tenderizes the chicken and enhances its flavor.
• Pasta water – Use as a secret weapon to adjust the sauce consistency and help it cling to the pasta.
Get ready to create a comforting bowl of chicken mac and cheese that will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings!
How to Make Chicken Mac and Cheese
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Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, and other spices. Allow to marinate for at least 15 minutes, ensuring the chicken is well-coated for maximum flavor.
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Cook Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Remember to save a cup of pasta water before draining!
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Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat some neutral oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until thoroughly cooked and golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant and slightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
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Make Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and butter mixture, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This should be a light golden color.
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Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the full-fat milk, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. This is where your creamy cheese sauce begins!
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Mix in Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Once combined, gradually add the cheese mix while stirring until melted and smooth.
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Combine Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until all pasta is evenly coated. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
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Layer Ingredients: In an oven-safe dish, layer half of the macaroni mixture. Top with the cooked chicken and then the remaining macaroni. Sprinkle with additional cheese for a bubbly crust.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Bake for 18-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
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Serve: Let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking, then serve hot, garnished as desired.
Optional: Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Mac and Cheese
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
Freezer: Freeze assembled chicken mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: To reheat, bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Add a bit of pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the chicken mac and cheese in advance, refrigerate, and simply bake it longer if stored cold. Enjoy the deliciousness whenever you’re ready!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken and cook the pasta up to 24 hours in advance to save time on busy weeknights. Prepare the cheese sauce and combine it with the macaroni, then layer the dish in an oven-safe container. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain the creamy texture, ensure to keep the cheese sauce thick, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed when reheating. When ready to serve, simply bake it for 25-30 minutes at 220°C (425°F) until golden and bubbly for that comforting, homemade delight your family will love!
What to Serve with Chicken Mac and Cheese?
When enjoying this creamy delight, it’s all about creating a well-rounded meal that complements the rich and cheesy flavors.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery taste of garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and aromatic balance to each cheesy bite. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce!
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the mac and cheese, adding refreshing textures to the meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring a lovely sweetness and earthy notes that beautifully contrast the creamy dish, enhancing the overall flavors on your plate.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch and balances the creamy mac and cheese, making it a colorful and nutritious side.
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Dijon Mustard Glazed Carrots: Sweet, glazed carrots drizzled with Dijon mustard turn up the flavor profile and add a subtle kick that pairs wonderfully with the dish.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp white wine pairs well, helping to cleanse the palate after each creamy bite; think Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for the perfect match.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, indulge in warm chocolate chip cookies. Their soft, gooey center offers a delightful contrast to your savory entrée, wrapping up the meal on a comforting note.
Creating a comforting spread alongside this chicken mac and cheese will elevate your dining experience to new heights!
Expert Tips for Chicken Mac and Cheese
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Pasta Perfection: Slightly undercook your pasta; it will continue to cook while baking, preventing it from becoming mushy in your chicken mac and cheese.
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Dairy Temperature: Use room temperature dairy ingredients for a smoother incorporation into the cheese sauce. This helps achieve the desired creamy texture.
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Season to Taste: Adjust seasonings according to your family’s preference, especially the spice level. Don’t hesitate to add more heat if you crave a fiery kick!
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Cheese Choice: Opt for freshly grated cheese. It melts better and creates a smoother sauce, enhancing the enjoyment of your chicken mac and cheese.
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Pasta Water is Key: Save a cup of pasta water before draining; it’s your secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency and helping it adhere to the pasta.
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Bake for Crunch: Bake your dish for an added crispy top! If in a time crunch, you can skip baking for quicker stovetop preparation.
Chicken Mac and Cheese Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor your dish to best suit your tastes!
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Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with your choice of veggies, like sautéed spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for a colorful twist. Not only will this enhance the nutritional value, but it’ll also add delightful textures.
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Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap out the traditional pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety, such as brown rice or quinoa pasta, to accommodate dietary needs and preferences.
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Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheese combinations! Try using gouda for a smoky flavor or pepper jack for added spiciness, creating a personalized cheesy experience.
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Heat Levels: Increase or decrease the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha in the cheese sauce. This is a fun way to truly tailor the dish to your spice tolerance!
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Creamy Crust: Introduce a crunchy topping with toasted panko breadcrumbs mixed with a sprinkle of parmesan for an extra flavor layer and delightful contrast.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs such as thyme or chives stirred into the cheese sauce can elevate the dish, providing aromatic freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
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Bacon Boost: For a savory punch, fold in crispy, crumbled bacon into the mac and cheese before baking. This adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor that is hard to resist.
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Extra Vegetables: Mix in roasted butternut squash or diced tomatoes for a colorful addition and a heighted sweetness. It’s a beautiful way to sneak in more nutrition and flavor!
Get ready to dive into a meal that’s not just comforting but also adaptable to every mood and palate!
Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pasta for chicken mac and cheese?
Absolutely! For this dish, I recommend using elbow macaroni, as it perfectly hugs the cheese sauce. However, feel free to get creative and use penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you love—just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the creamy sauce!
What’s the best way to store leftover chicken mac and cheese?
You can easily store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, adding a splash of milk can help restore its creamy texture.
Can I freeze chicken mac and cheese?
Very! To freeze, assemble your chicken mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container and it’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake it at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes until heated through. It’s a delicious and convenient option for busy days!
What if my cheese sauce turns out lumpy?
No worries! If your cheese sauce gets lumpy, it might be due to adding the cheese too quickly or the dairy being too cold. The fix is to warm the sauce gently over low heat while whisking vigorously. If it’s still lumpy, you can use an immersion blender to smooth it out. Just be patient, and you’ll get that perfect creamy texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can make this chicken mac and cheese vegetarian by simply omitting the chicken. Additionally, if anyone in your family has dairy allergies, consider using non-dairy substitutes for the cheese, cream, and milk. Just look for vegan cheese products that melt well for a similar creamy experience.
How can I adjust the spiciness in my dish?
The more the merrier! To adjust the spiciness, you can simply modify the amount of red chili powder in the marinade or add jalapeños to the mix. For a milder flavor, omit the hot sauce entirely. Customize to your taste!
Irresistible Chicken Mac and Cheese with a Spicy Kick
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, and other spices. Allow to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat some neutral oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until thoroughly cooked and golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and butter, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Gradually add the cheese mix while stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until all pasta is evenly coated. If too thick, use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
- In an oven-safe dish, layer half of the macaroni mixture. Top with the cooked chicken and then the remaining macaroni. Sprinkle with additional cheese.
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Bake for 18-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking, then serve hot, garnished as desired.