Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting meal that combines the creamy goodness of cheese with tender chicken and pasta. It’s not just delicious; it’s also easy to make! Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
How to Make Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pasta shells
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions and drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Reduce heat to low, then add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the cooked pasta shells and mix until well combined and coated in the cheese sauce.
- Simmer for a few minutes to heat through. Serve warm, garnished with parsley if desired.
How to Serve Chicken Mac and Cheese
Serve Chicken Mac and Cheese hot from the skillet. You can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. It pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store Chicken Mac and Cheese
If you have leftovers, let the Chicken Mac and Cheese cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Tips to Make Chicken Mac and Cheese
- To add extra flavor, you can sauté onions or bell peppers with the chicken.
- For a crisp topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking for a few minutes.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
Variation
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. For a healthier version, swap heavy cream with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover cooked chicken works great in this dish. Just skip the cooking step for the chicken.
Can I freeze Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it. Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. It will last for about 2-3 months.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
You can use any cheese you like, such as gouda, Monterey jack, or a cheese blend. Each will give a different flavor to the dish.
Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 2 cups pasta shells
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced You can use leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the chicken.
Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream You can substitute with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- to taste salt and pepper
Garnish
- Parsley for garnish (optional) Add a pop of color.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions and drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Sauce Creation
- Reduce heat to low, then add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
Mixing
- Stir in the cooked pasta shells and mix until well combined and coated in the cheese sauce.
- Simmer for a few minutes to heat through.
- Serve warm, garnished with parsley if desired.