The Only Mac and Cheese Chicken Recipe
This creamy and comforting Chicken Mac and Cheese blends three rich cheeses with tender shredded chicken and a crisp golden topping. Perfectly indulgent and endlessly customizable, it’s the ultimate comfort dish that brings everyone to the table smiling.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 lb elbow macaroni or any short pasta
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 cup gruyère cheese, grated
- 0.5 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for one minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, gruyère, and parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and pasta until evenly coated.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with panko and extra cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving. The sauce will thicken as it rests.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, try the Buffalo variation using hot sauce and blue cheese.
- For smoky depth, add BBQ sauce and Gouda. Avoid pre-shredded cheese for a smoother texture.
- Grate fresh cheese and take it off the heat to prevent graininess. Serve with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted broccoli for a balanced meal.