Name: Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces dry elbow macaroni; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size cubes; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2½ cups whole or 2% milk, warm; Pinch of nutmeg; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh herbs, for garnish (optional); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 13 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of the ultimate comfort food that warms your soul, you are in for a treat with this Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe. It takes the creamy, cheesy goodness of classic mac and cheese and elevates it by adding tender, perfectly cooked chicken bites. This combination brings the best of both worlds—savory chicken and rich cheese sauce—together in a dish that is irresistibly satisfying for any weeknight dinner or gathering with friends and family. Once you try this recipe, it will easily become a beloved staple in your kitchen, delivering that familiar comfort plus a delightful protein boost.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white cooking pot with two handles sits on a white marbled surface. Inside the pot, there is a mixture with a chunky texture and golden-brown color, spread over the bottom and sides. On top of the mixture are three yellowish cubes of butter and a pile of light beige flour. A wooden spoon with some of the golden mixture on it rests inside the pot, the handle leaning against the pot's edge. Nearby, a small white bowl with yellowish residue sits empty on the surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting your hands on the ingredients for this Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is both straightforward and rewarding. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor, from the tender chicken to the creamy cheese blend and that irresistible breadcrumb topping.

8 ounces dry elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto all that delicious cheesy sauce perfectly.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a light richness while searing the chicken to golden perfection.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed: Tender protein pieces that soak up flavors and add heartiness.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the dish overall.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Offers a subtle zing that cuts through the creamy sauce.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Used for sautéing and building that silky cheese sauce base.
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Brings a sweet, aromatic foundation to the sauce.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds vibrant depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Creates the roux that thickens your cheese sauce into velvety bliss.
2½ cups whole or 2% milk, warm: The creamy liquid that transforms the roux into a luscious cheese sauce.
Pinch of nutmeg: A surprising little touch that enhances the cheese without overwhelming it.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, adding stretch and mild creaminess.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides that classic sharp tang mac and cheese lovers crave.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings umami richness and a slightly nutty flavor.
Fresh herbs, for garnish (optional): A bright, fresh finish to brighten your presentation and taste.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for breadcrumbs topping): Ensures the breadcrumbs toast golden and crunchy.
½ cup Panko breadcrumbs: The secret to a crispy, satisfying topping that contrasts the creamy interior.

How to Make Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, which means tender but still firm to the bite. This texture is essential because it holds up beautifully when mixed with the cheese sauce and chicken later. Once cooked, drain and set it aside to cool slightly while preparing the rest of your dish.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken cubes, seasoning them with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook until each piece is golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step ensures your chicken is flavorful and juicy, providing a hearty contrast to the creamy cheese sauce. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma. These aromatics are the flavor foundation that enriches the cheese sauce, so don’t rush this step.

Step 4: Make the Roux

To the skillet with the softened onions and garlic, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the mixture. Stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until the roux turns a golden brown color. This cooking of the flour not only removes any raw taste but also sets up the perfect thickening agent for the sauce.

Step 5: Create the Cheese Sauce

Slowly pour in the warm milk to the roux, whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth and lump-free. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of your spoon, usually around 4 to 5 minutes. Then reduce the heat to low and sprinkle in shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until they melt completely, forming the velvety, indulgent cheese sauce that is the heart of this Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe. Don’t forget to add a pinch of nutmeg here—it subtly enhances the overall flavor.

Step 6: Combine Macaroni, Chicken, and Cheese Sauce

Return the cooked macaroni and seared chicken to the cheese sauce. Gently mix everything together until every piece of pasta and chicken is lovingly coated in that cheesy goodness. Now your dish is almost ready to be served, but wait—there’s one more delight to add.

Step 7: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

In a small saucepan, melt the last two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the Panko breadcrumbs and toast them while stirring constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crunchy. This topping adds a perfect textural contrast to the creamy mac and cheese, creating a delightful crust on top. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese evenly.

How to Serve Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

This is a close-up of a creamy macaroni and cheese dish in a white bowl on a white marbled surface, showing two main layers: a thick smooth yellowish cheese sauce enveloping small curved pasta pieces on the bottom, and a lightly browned golden crispy breadcrumb topping scattered unevenly across the top layer. A shiny silver spoon holds a scoop of the pasta, pulling up some cheese strands that stretch slightly with the rich texture of the cheese sauce and soft pasta, with some toasted crumbs resting on the spoon’s surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives are an excellent choice to add a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast to the rich dish. They brighten the presentation and add a subtle herbal note that complements the cheesy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve this Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance out the richness of the dish and add some fresh crunch. Garlic bread or roasted tomatoes are also lovely companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try baking the combined mac and cheese mixture in individual ramekins topped with the breadcrumbs for a personalized dish. Alternatively, turning this into a loaded casserole by adding chopped bacon or sautéed mushrooms can elevate the presentation and the flavor even more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may change slightly after freezing, but reheated with care, it remains a delicious comfort meal.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently in the oven or microwave. Adding a splash of milk before warming helps to restore the creamy consistency. If using the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of cream cheese for a different twist. Just make sure they melt well to keep the sauce smooth.

Is it okay to use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, leftover cooked chicken works perfectly. Simply shred or cube it and add it during the final mixing step. This makes the recipe even quicker and just as tasty.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Also, ensure your breadcrumbs are gluten-free or simply skip the breadcrumb topping for a naturally gluten-free version.

What is the best way to keep the mac and cheese from drying out?

Using warm milk helps create a smooth sauce, and reheating with a little extra milk or cheese sauce helps maintain moisture. Also, covering the dish while baking or reheating ensures it doesn’t dry out.

Can I add vegetables to the Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe?

Definitely! Adding steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or peas can add a nutrition boost and a fresh contrast in texture and flavor, making the dish even more satisfying.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is the perfect dish to cozy up with on any night you want comfort food done right. The creamy, cheesy sauce hugging tender chicken and pasta makes every bite pure joy. Don’t hesitate—give it a try and watch it quickly become an all-time favorite on your dinner rotation. Your taste buds will thank you!