Description
A cozy and comforting dish that combines creamy macaroni and cheese with tender chicken, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk and cream, whisking until smooth. Let simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, salt, and pepper. Fold in cooked pasta and shredded chicken.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Mix panko, Parmesan, and melted butter; sprinkle over the top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until golden and bubbling. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
For a creamier texture, use more heavy cream or different cheese varieties. To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and add vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken, macaroni and cheese, baked, comfort food, family dinner