If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, soul-satisfying meal that will delight everyone at the table, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese. It’s the ultimate blend of tender, savory chicken with the luscious, cheesy goodness that mac and cheese fans cherish. Each bite wraps you in creamy, cheesy warmth balanced perfectly by the hearty chicken and al dente pasta. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, this dish is guaranteed to become a fast family favorite that you’ll want to make over and over again.

Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a special role in building layers of flavor, creaminess, and texture that make this dish nothing short of magical. From sharp cheddar cheese for that tangy punch to the smooth whole milk that creates the perfect sauce, these basics are both simple and essential.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provides tender, juicy protein that complements the cheesy sauce beautifully.
Elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds onto all that creamy cheese perfectly.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds bold, rich flavor and melts into a velvety sauce.
Whole milk: Gives the sauce a smooth and creamy texture that feels indulgent.
Unsalted butter: Lends richness and helps create the roux for the cheese sauce.
All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to creamy perfection without lumps.
Garlic powder: Offers a gentle hint of savory depth.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all those flavors.
Breadcrumbs (optional): Creates a crunchy, golden topping that contrasts gorgeously with the creamy interior.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling salted water and cooking the elbow macaroni just until al dente—this means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside, because it will finish cooking once combined with the sauce and chicken, soaking up all that creamy goodness. Perfectly cooked pasta is the foundation of a dreamy Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and toss in cubed chicken breasts that have been lightly seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until all the chicken pieces are fully cooked through and lightly browned. This step builds that juicy, flavorful protein that the dish relies on, creating a hearty contrast to the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce

Using the same skillet (no need to dirty another pan!), add a bit more butter and stir in the flour until the mixture is smooth and forming a roux. Slowly whisk in the whole milk, turning heat to medium-low, and keep stirring for about 4 to 5 minutes as the sauce thickens beautifully. This silky base is where the magic happens—it’s the heart of a truly luscious Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Step 4: Add Cheddar Cheese

Lower the heat and gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes irresistibly smooth. The sharpness of cheddar adds a vibrant, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the creamy texture, making this step essential for authentic comfort-food vibes.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Gently fold the cooked elbow macaroni and sautéed chicken into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is well coated. This step guarantees that every bite of the Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese is packed with melty, cheesy goodness alongside savory chicken — a match made in food heaven.

Step 6: Bake for a Crunchy Topping (Optional)

If you love contrasting textures, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes. The breadcrumbs will toast up to a golden crunch, adding a wonderful layer of texture that enhances the creamy interior. It’s the perfect finishing touch that’s worth the extra effort.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top for a burst of color and a fresh note that brightens up the richness. You can also add a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you’re craving a slight kick to spice things up elegantly.

Side Dishes

Pair this rich and creamy dish with a crisp green salad dressed in tangy vinaigrette, or some steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance the meal with freshness and crunch. Roasted vegetables or even a simple coleslaw also work beautifully as sides to complement the flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins topped with breadcrumbs for an elegant single-serving presentation. For a family-style gathering, a large rustic casserole dish straight from the oven adds an inviting, cozy touch. You can also stuff bell peppers or hollowed-out tomatoes for a fun and colorful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a great option for easy lunches or quick dinners during a busy week.

Freezing

If you want to store this dish for longer, freezing works great here. Pack it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may soften slightly after thawing, but the flavor remains deliciously intact.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk if the sauce feels too thick. Alternatively, microwave in short increments, stirring in between for even heating. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for best results.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses in Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives that classic tang, you can mix in mozzarella for extra stretchiness, gouda for a smoky twist, or pepper jack for some heat. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well for that creamy texture.

How do I keep the chicken moist and tender?

Cooking the chicken gently over medium heat and avoiding overcooking ensures it stays juicy. Cubing the chicken into uniform pieces helps it cook evenly, and seasoning before cooking adds extra flavor.

Is it necessary to bake with breadcrumbs?

No, baking with breadcrumbs is optional but highly recommended for a crunchy topping. If you prefer, you can skip this step and simply serve the dish as a creamy stovetop meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce, and use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to keep the recipe friendly for gluten-sensitive diets.

What’s the best way to reheat Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese without drying it out?

Reheat gently on low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir often and avoid high heat to prevent drying out. Covering it while reheating in the microwave also helps keep moisture in.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you whip up this Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese, it will quickly earn a starring spot in your recipe collection. It’s rich, comforting, and seriously satisfying in every way. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe promises a warm hug on a plate that everyone will adore. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready to experience one of the coziest meals around!

Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 20 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender, sautéed chicken breasts with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, smothered in a rich and smooth sharp cheddar cheese sauce. Optional breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch when baked to golden perfection. A hearty and comforting meal perfect for family dinners.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth roux. Slowly whisk in whole milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Add Cheddar: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine: Gently fold the cooked elbow macaroni and sautéed chicken into the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is well coated.
Bake (Optional): For a crunchy topping, transfer the mac and cheese mixture to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.

Notes

Using sharp cheddar cheese enhances the flavor, but you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different twist.
Whole milk provides a creamy texture; for a lighter version, you may use 2% milk but expect a slightly less rich sauce.
The breadcrumb topping is optional, but adds a nice crunchy texture layer when baked.
Make sure not to overcook the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Boiling, Sautéing, Baking
Cuisine: American