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Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese

Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese That Feels Like a Warm Hug

This Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines pasta, chicken, and a rich cheese sauce for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni opt for gluten-free if needed
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breasts can substitute with shredded rotisserie chicken
For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Butter unsalted preferred
  • 2 tablespoons Flour can use gluten-free blend
  • 2 cups Milk consider half-and-half or plant-based alternatives
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese can experiment with gouda or mozzarella
For Topping (Optional)
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs can use gluten-free breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup Parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet
  • oven-safe baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Add another tablespoon of butter to the skillet, then sprinkle in the flour and whisk until a smooth paste forms. Gradually incorporate milk and cook until thickened.
  4. Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture, stirring until melted and smooth.
  5. Fold the drained macaroni and sautéed chicken into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  6. Transfer to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until golden.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or cheese varieties for unique flavor profiles.

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