Chicken Mac and Cheese

This extra creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with savory pasta shells enveloped in the BEST cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this one-skillet recipe is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The rich flavors and creamy texture of the sauce will leave everyone wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Chicken Mac and Cheese comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cheeses and seasonings creates a deeply flavorful sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a comforting weeknight meal or serve it at gatherings; it’s always a hit!
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just under an hour, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and tender chicken, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the essential tools before starting. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating delicious Chicken Mac and Cheese.

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 making the cheese sauce all in one pan, saving time and effort.
• Silicone spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of the skillet without damaging it, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
• Meat mallet: Helps to evenly pound chicken for quick cooking, leading to juicy bites in your mac and cheese.

Ingredients

This extra creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is easy to make in one skillet and has the BEST cheese sauce with juicy bites of seared chicken and savory pasta shells.

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 Cooking

• ½ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour

For the Pasta

• 1 ¾ cups shredded cheddar cheese (see notes)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ lb. small or medium shells (see notes)

How to Make Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Combine 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 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. Pat the chicken dry and season each side with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Sear 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 and let rest for 10 minutes, then cut into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5: Add Wine to Skillet

Turn the heat off. Add the wine and set the heat to medium. Use a silicone spatula to “clean” the bottom and sides of the skillet; this adds more flavor to your sauce. Reduce the wine by half, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 6: Make Roux

Melt the butter and stir in flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until the raw flour smell is gone.

Step 7: Combine Sauce Mixture

Add the sauce mixture in small splashes while stirring continuously; be sure to do this slowly to maintain thickness.

Step 8: Cook Pasta

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Simmer partially covered while you cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain once cooked, stirring occasionally as pasta cooks.

Step 9: Add Cheese

Reduce heat of sauce to low. Gradually sprinkle in cheese while stirring continuously until combined.

Step 10: Mix Chicken & Pasta

Add drained pasta along with cooked chicken into sauce; stir well to combine. There will be plenty of cheese sauce—don’t worry! The pasta will absorb some upon standing. Serve hot!

How to Serve Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serving Chicken Mac and Cheese can elevate your meal experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this creamy dish that combines tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and delightful pasta shells.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan complements the richness of the mac and cheese.

Add a Crunchy Topping

• Breadcrumb Topping: Toasted breadcrumbs mixed with herbs add texture.
• Fried Onions: Crispy onions on top provide a savory crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery bread infused with garlic is perfect for soaking up extra cheese sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add cheese on top of your garlic bread for an extra indulgent touch.

Offer a Drink Pairing

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the flavors of chicken and cheese.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water refreshes the palate between bites.

How to Perfect Chicken Mac and Cheese

Achieving the perfect Chicken Mac and Cheese requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully creamy every time.

• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for fresh cheddar cheese for better melting qualities and flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures that the pasta holds its shape and absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently; this enhances its flavor and creaminess.
• Add Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; this allows you to adjust seasoning levels perfectly.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing your mac and cheese to sit for a few minutes helps thicken the sauce further.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different types of cheeses can add depth to flavor. Try adding Gruyère or mozzarella!

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Mac and Cheese

Chicken Mac and Cheese is delicious on its own but pairing it with side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of mac and cheese.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a smoky flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and freshness, making it an excellent contrast to creamy pasta.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans offer a hearty side that pairs well with chicken dishes.
5. Cornbread: The slightly sweet flavor of cornbread goes perfectly with savory mac and cheese.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears give an elegant touch while being healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Mac and Cheese can be simple, but avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Failing to season your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Cook it just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the cheese sauce.
• Adding cheese too quickly: If you add cheese too fast, it may clump. Sprinkle it gradually and stir continuously to create a smooth sauce.
• Rushing the sauce process: Skipping steps or rushing can affect texture. Take your time to reduce the wine and thicken the sauce correctly.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese can lead to a less creamy sauce. Use good quality cheddar and Parmesan for better flavor and texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring between intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious dish combining tender chicken pieces with pasta shells in a rich cheese sauce.

Can I customize my Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli or spinach, change the cheese types, or even use different pasta shapes.

How do I make my Chicken Mac and Cheese creamier?

For extra creaminess, use more half-and-half or mix in cream cheese along with your cheddar.

Is Chicken Mac and Cheese suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This extra creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients while enjoying its rich flavors. Give this recipe a try for an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love!