Creamy Chicken and Mac and Cheese Recipe

Published: April 25, 2026

by Carolina

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful chicken and mac and cheese is a one-pot wonder that comes together in just 45 minutes
The cheesy goodness packs a flavor punch that will have you dreaming of comfort food
Its gooey, melty texture topped with crunchy breadcrumbs creates a dish that’s as satisfying to the eyes as it is to the taste buds
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck party, this recipe is as versatile as your imagination allows

One rainy evening, my family gathered around the table, smiles spreading as they savored every cheesy bite of chicken and mac and cheese.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious chicken and mac and cheese dish:

Cooked Chicken, Shredded: Use 2 cups of rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor in your meal.

Elbow Macaroni: Opt for 8 ounces of elbow macaroni, which holds the cheese sauce beautifully.

Butter: Two tablespoons are perfect for creating a rich and creamy cheese sauce base.

All-Purpose Flour: This thickens your cheese sauce effectively; use 2 tablespoons to achieve the right consistency.

Milk: Whole milk (2 cups) provides the best creaminess; avoid skim for a richer flavor.

Cheddar Cheese, Shredded: Use 2 cups of sharp cheddar for a bold, flavorful punch in your dish.

Mozzarella Cheese, Shredded: A cup of mozzarella adds a gooey texture that complements the cheddar perfectly.

Garlic Powder: One teaspoon enhances overall flavor; fresh garlic can also be used if preferred.

Onion Powder: This adds depth to the dish; one teaspoon is sufficient for a balanced taste.

Salt: Use one teaspoon to elevate all the flavors in your mac and cheese.

Black Pepper: One teaspoon brings warmth; adjust according to your spice preference.

Bread Crumbs (optional): For added crunch on top, 1 cup provides a delightful contrast in texture.

Parmesan Cheese, Grated: Two tablespoons enhance the flavor of the topping; choose freshly grated for best results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a roaring boil. This is crucial as the salt enhances the flavor of the macaroni. Once boiling, add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 7-9 minutes. As you stir occasionally, enjoy the sight of the pasta swirling in the bubbling water. Once cooked, drain it and set aside, allowing it to cool slightly while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The rich aroma of melting butter is an inviting start! Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk, watching as the mixture transforms into a creamy consistency that thickens and bubbles—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese along with 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and velvety.

Combine Chicken and Pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked macaroni with 2 cups of shredded chicken—using rotisserie chicken makes this step extra easy! Pour in your luscious cheese sauce and mix everything together gently but thoroughly until every piece of pasta is beautifully coated in that cheesy goodness. The blend of textures from the tender chicken and creamy sauce is simply irresistible!

Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Now, transfer your comforting chicken and mac mixture into a baking dish. For an extra crunchy top, sprinkle on 1 cup of bread crumbs along with 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese if you desire that delightful crunch. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and bubbly—this is when your kitchen will fill with an enticing aroma that beckons everyone to gather around.

Enjoy this hearty chicken and mac and cheese dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor; it saves time and enhances the dish
Ensure you don’t overcook the macaroni; al dente pasta holds up better in the cheese sauce
For a creamier texture, let the cheese sauce simmer a bit longer before combining with pasta and chicken

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results when making chicken and mac and cheese, start by cooking the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. While the pasta cooks, prepare the cheese sauce in a skillet. This efficient sequence ensures everything comes together seamlessly for a creamy, delicious dish.

Delicious Chicken and Mac and Cheese Recipe

Chicken and mac and cheese is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and creamy, cheesy pasta. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It serves four people, making it an ideal family meal.

Ingredients You Will Need

For this chicken and mac and cheese recipe, gather these ingredients: For the chicken, use 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken, such as rotisserie chicken. For the mac and cheese, you will need 8 ounces of elbow macaroni, 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 2 cups of whole milk. You will also require 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended), 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and seasonings like 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Optionally, prepare 1 cup of bread crumbs and 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan for topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by cooking the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Next, make the cheese sauce by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for one minute while whisking constantly. Gradually whisk in milk until the mixture thickens and bubbles; then remove from heat. Stir in cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni with shredded chicken and the prepared cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is coated evenly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before transferring the mixture into a baking dish. If you desire extra crunch, sprinkle bread crumbs and parmesan cheese on top before baking. Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

This chicken and mac and cheese recipe is not only easy to make but also delivers satisfying flavors that everyone will love. Enjoy this hearty meal with family or friends any night of the week!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your chicken and mac and cheese by adding cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutritious twist. You can swap out the cheddar for pepper jack if you prefer a kick, or use gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.

Storing & Reheating

To store chicken and mac and cheese, place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, use a microwave or oven. Microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

FAQ

What is the prep time for chicken and mac and cheese?

Prep time for chicken and mac and cheese is 15 minutes.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, using shredded rotisserie chicken works exceptionally well in chicken and mac and cheese.

How long should I bake chicken and mac and cheese?

Bake chicken and mac and cheese for 20 minutes at 350°F until golden and bubbly.

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