I’ve always been a sucker for comfort food, and nothing hits the spot quite like a steaming plate of creamy mac and cheese paired with juicy, golden chicken. Growing up, my mom’s kitchen was the heart of our home, and her mac and cheese was legendary. I’d sneak bites straight from the pot, savoring that cheesy goodness. But it wasn’t until I started experimenting in my own kitchen that I discovered how perfectly tender chicken complements this dish. It’s like they were made for each other—a match made in foodie heaven!

This recipe is my go-to when I need a crowd-pleaser or just want to treat myself after a long day. It’s simple enough for weeknights but feels indulgent, like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just craving something cozy, this chicken and mac and cheese will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into how to make this creamy, cheesy masterpiece with a side of perfectly cooked chicken that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen too.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (warm)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp mustard powder (optional, for extra tang)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra shredded cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Don’t rinse it—you want that starch to help the sauce cling.
2. Season the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning all over the chicken.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the skillet, cover with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot used for pasta, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every noodle. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk.
7. Serve It Up: Slice the chicken into strips. Spoon a generous portion of mac and cheese onto plates and top with chicken slices. Sprinkle with parsley and extra cheese for a fancy touch.

Related recipe:

Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

Creamy Chicken and Rice

Pro Cooking Tips

• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Freshly grated cheese melts smoother.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente is key since the pasta will soak up some sauce while mixing.
• Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest after cooking keeps it juicy and tender.
• Warm the Milk: Cold milk can make the sauce lumpy. Warm it slightly before adding to the roux.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning or mix hot sauce into the cheese sauce.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Baked Version: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until golden.
• BBQ Twist: Swap the chicken seasoning for your favorite BBQ rub and drizzle with BBQ sauce before serving.

Storage Suggestions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep chicken and mac and cheese separate to maintain textures.
• Freezer: Freeze the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Chicken is best frozen separately for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat mac and cheese on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive creaminess. Microwave chicken with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this dish hot for maximum comfort. Pair it with a simple green salad or roasted veggies to balance the richness. For a fun family-style meal, place the mac and cheese in a large serving bowl and arrange sliced chicken on top. Let everyone dig in! It’s also great for potlucks or cozy movie nights at home.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx. 1.5 cups mac and cheese + 4 oz chicken)

• Calories: 620 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! Try gouda, Monterey Jack, or a bit of Parmesan for a unique flavor. Just keep the total cheese amount the same.

How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and swap the flour in the roux for a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or rice flour.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mac and cheese and chicken separately, store in the fridge, and reheat when ready. Assemble just before serving.

What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

Is this kid-friendly?
Kids love it! You can skip the mustard powder or spicy variations to keep it mild.

Conclusion

This creamy chicken and mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to whip up and impossible to resist. The cheesy, velvety pasta paired with tender, flavorful chicken is a combo that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Whether you stick to the classic version or try a fun variation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the smiles around your table. Trust me, this one’s a keeper!