This easy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner! It features the best homemade cheese sauce and is a budget-friendly recipe everyone will love.

Last month, I shared a Red Robin Mac and Cheese Recipe that was both simple and quick, and I received a lot of positive feedback on my Instagram. I got some DMs asking for an easy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe, so that’s what I’m doing today.

I’ve aimed to create a straightforward Chicken Mac and Cheese that’s delicious and easy to prepare. For this recipe, I use tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and a few pantry staples to create a rich, comforting dish.

The best thing about this recipe is its flexibility—you can add any vegetables you like, such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers, to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.

This Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings. I love to serve it with my favorite garlic bread and a fresh side salad. You’re going to love how easy and satisfying this dish is!

Why Chicken Mac and Cheese is Great?

Chicken Mac and Cheese is great because it combines the best of both worlds: the comforting, creamy goodness of classic mac and cheese with the hearty, flavorful addition of tender chicken.

It’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized with different cheeses, veggies, and seasonings to suit your taste. Plus, it’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a special gathering. This dish is satisfying, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to make Chicken Mac and Cheese

Cook the Pasta:

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to keep the pasta from sticking together. Set aside.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until no longer pink and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Cook the Onions and Garlic:

In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until aromatic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir to combine. Cook for another minute. Whisk in the milk and dried mustard, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce:

Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the cheese sauce. Taste for seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.

Serve:

Serve the Chicken Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

Tips for perfect Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Cook the pasta just until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot cheese sauce. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.

• Don’t skimp on seasoning when cooking the chicken. Use salt, pepper, and your favorite spices to add flavor to the chicken before combining it with the pasta.

• When making the cheese sauce, ensure the flour and butter (or oil) are well combined to avoid lumps. Cook the roux for a minute or two to eliminate the raw flour taste before adding milk.

• Combining different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives your mac and cheese a more complex and rich flavor. Cheddar adds sharpness, mozzarella gives creaminess, and Parmesan brings a nutty taste.

• Once the cheese is added, remove the sauce from heat as soon as it’s melted and smooth. Overcooking can cause the sauce to become grainy or oily.

What to pair with Chicken Mac and Cheese

My favorite way to enjoy Chicken Mac and Cheese is with a side of steamed broccoli and a slice of warm garlic bread. The combination of creamy pasta with the freshness of broccoli and the crunch of garlic bread is perfect for a cozy meal. If you like a bit of tang, try adding a side of coleslaw, and for more variety, roasted vegetables or a mixed green salad make excellent additions.

How to store

To store Chicken Mac and Cheese, first allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to maintain the creamy texture, and heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the mac and cheese for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use any type of pasta for Chicken Mac and Cheese?

• Yes, you can use any pasta you like, but elbow macaroni is the classic choice. Other options like penne, rotini, or shells also work well.

Can I make Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Simply make the dish, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before serving, adding a bit of milk if needed.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

• Yes, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the roux to make the dish gluten-free.

What cheeses work best for this recipe?

• Cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan are great choices. You can also experiment with Gouda, Gruyère, or even cream cheese for added richness.

Can I add vegetables to Chicken Mac and Cheese?

• Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas can boost the nutritional value and add extra flavor.

How do I keep the sauce from getting grainy?

• Ensure the cheese is melted on low heat and avoid overcooking the sauce. Using freshly grated cheese also helps prevent graininess.

Conclusion

Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken with rich, creamy cheese and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s easy to make, adaptable to your tastes, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a delicious, satisfying choice that never disappoints.