Chicken Mac and Cheese

Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines two beloved classics – creamy macaroni and savory roasted chicken – into one irresistible meal. This delightful fusion of flavors has become a staple in many kitchens, offering warmth, satisfaction, and a touch of elegance.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 8 oz elbow macaroni or other short pasta shapes

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• ⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 2½ cups whole milk

• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.

2. Boil macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain well and set aside.

3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add flour and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes, creating a roux. Gradually pour in milk while continuing to stir until smooth and thickened. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and add cheeses, mixing until fully combined and smooth. Fold in cooked chicken.

4. Combine sauce and cooked macaroni in a prepared baking dish. Mix gently to ensure even distribution.

5. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and olive oil. Sprinkle mixture over top of macaroni.

6. Bake uncovered for approximately 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving.

Nutritional Information per Serving

Calories: 550 kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 26g | Saturated fat: 14g | Polyunsaturated fat: 2g | Monounsaturated fat: 8g | Trans fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 105mg | Sodium: 450mg | Potassium: 380mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 640IU | Calcium: 420mg | Iron: 1mg

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated. For longer-term storage, freeze leftover mac & cheese in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as above.

How long does it take to cook chicken mac and cheese?


The cooking time for chicken mac and cheese can vary slightly depending on the specific recipe and method of preparation. However, a typical estimate for cooking chicken mac and cheese is around 30 minutes. For instance, a recipe from Foodal suggests baking the dish for about 18 to 20 minutes until the top is golden-brown, while a recipe from Allrecipes does not provide an exact cooking time but involves steps that typically take around 30 minutes to complete. It's important to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Always follow the specific cooking instructions in your chosen recipe to achieve the best results.

If you're looking for a quick and easy one-pan chicken mac and cheese recipe, Sargento® Foods offers a creamy version that can be cooked in approximately 15 minutes. This recipe involves simmering the pasta in chicken broth, then adding cream cheese and Sargento® Shredded Creamery Cheddar Cheese, and finally folding in cooked rotisserie chicken before serving.

When preparing chicken mac and cheese, it's essential to follow the cooking instructions carefully to ensure that the chicken is cooked through and the dish is heated evenly. Additionally, always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it has reached a safe minimum temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

It's important to note that the actual cooking time may vary based on factors such as the type of pasta used, the size of the chicken pieces, and the specific instructions of the recipe you are following.

Can chicken mac and cheese be made in a slow cooker?

Yes, cooking chicken mac and cheese in a slow cooker is possible. Although traditional mac and cheese recipes are usually made on the stove or in the oven, there are variations designed specifically for slow cookers.

One example of a slow cooker chicken mac and cheese recipe comes from Tyson Foods, which includes the following steps:

1. Combine frozen chicken breasts, cheddar cheese sauce, and heavy cream in a 4 or 6-quart slow cooker.

2. Cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours.

3. Approximately 30 minutes before the chicken is done, cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.

4. Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the cooked macaroni.

Another variation from Slow Cooker Gourmet features garlic chicken and adds the macaroni and cheese components after the chicken has cooked:

1. Place chicken in the slow cooker with broth, garlic, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Cook on LOW for 5-7 hours or HIGH for about 3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked.

3. Remove the chicken and shred it.

4. Add noodles, shredded cheese, and cream cheese to the slow cooker along with the shredded chicken.

5. Stir well to coat and combine the noodles.

6. Cook on HIGH for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally for best results.

These recipes demonstrate that it is indeed possible to make chicken mac and cheese in a slow cooker, although the process takes longer compared to conventional methods.

Conclusion

Chicken mac and cheese is a heartwarming and flavorful dish that brings together classic comfort foods. With its versatile nature, it can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer a traditional stovetop or oven-based recipe or opt for a more innovative slow cooker adaptation, chicken mac and cheese delivers a satisfying meal that appeals to children and adults alike.

FAQ

1. How do you make Chicken Mac and Cheese from scratch?

To make Chicken Mac and Cheese from scratch, start by cooking pasta until al dente. In a separate pan, cook diced chicken until it's fully cooked. Prepare a cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour to make a roux, then whisking in milk and shredded cheese until smooth. Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce, then bake until bubbly and golden brown. 2. Can I use different types of cheese in Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Yes, you can customize your Chicken Mac and Cheese by using different types of cheese according to your preference. Popular choices include cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of several cheeses for a more complex flavor. 3. How can I make Chicken Mac and Cheese healthier?

To make Chicken Mac and Cheese healthier, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, reducing the amount of cheese or opting for low-fat varieties, and adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients. You can also bake it with a whole-grain breadcrumb topping instead of traditional breadcrumbs. 4. Can I make Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to bake, remove the covering and bake according to the recipe instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed. 5. How can I reheat leftover Chicken Mac and Cheese?

To reheat leftover Chicken Mac and Cheese, place it in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed to your liking.