Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Whip up a creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese with tender chicken, rich cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This hearty, homemade meal is a favorite for busy weeknights and a hit at family gatherings. Packed with flavor and simple ingredients, it’s the perfect comfort food to add to your recipe collection.

Ingredients

Sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups half and half
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 chicken bouillon cube
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/2 teaspoon EACH: onion powder, garlic powder, parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon EACH: paprika, pepper

Chicken, Pasta, and Cheese:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 3/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (see notes)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 lb small or medium pasta shells (see notes)

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce Ingredients:

1. In a large measuring cup with a spout, combine all sauce ingredients and set aside.
2. Measure out the remaining ingredients to streamline the cooking process.

Cook the Pasta:

1. Begin boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta to al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside once cooked.

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Slice the chicken breast lengthwise to create 2-3 thinner slices. Place them between plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
2. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Set aside to rest for 10 minutes, then cut into bite-sized pieces.

Deglaze the Pan:

1. Turn off the heat and add the white wine to the skillet. Set the heat to medium and use a silicone spatula to scrape up browned bits from the bottom and sides. Reduce the wine by half, about 4-5 minutes.

Make the Sauce:

1. Melt the butter in the skillet, then stir in the flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the raw flour smell dissipates.
2. Slowly add the sauce mixture in small splashes, stirring constantly to maintain thickness.
3. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Partially cover and stir occasionally while the pasta cooks.

Combine and Serve:

1. Lower the sauce heat to low. Gradually add the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and fully incorporated.
2. Add the drained pasta and chicken to the sauce, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to sit briefly; the pasta will absorb some of the sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Flavorful: The rich cheese sauce, infused with savory spices and chicken, creates a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh chicken for a wholesome homemade dish.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal as a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings.

Tips

• Thick Sauce: Add the liquid to the roux slowly to ensure a thick, creamy sauce.
• Golden Chicken: Let the chicken develop a golden crust for added texture and flavor.
• Pasta Cooking: Slightly undercook the pasta if you plan to reheat leftovers, as it will absorb more sauce over time.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap chicken breast for chicken thighs, shrimp, or even diced ham.
• Cheese: Experiment with different cheese varieties like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your taste or replace it with smoked paprika for a milder kick.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice or almond flour.

What if I don’t have white wine?
Replace the wine with additional chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this mac and cheese with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside crusty garlic bread for a satisfying side.

Enjoy this indulgent and delicious Chicken Mac and Cheese as your next comfort food go-to!