Cheesy Chicken Mac Bake
A creamy, cheesy chicken pasta bake with tender macaroni, sharp Cheddar, and savory chicken, baked until bubbly and golden—perfect comfort food for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart saucepan, melt the margarine and cook the chopped onion until tender.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, milk, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni, 3/4 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, and drained chicken to the sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, then top with the remaining cheese and bake until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack alongside the sharp Cheddar. If you prefer a creamier texture, increase the milk slightly or substitute with sour cream. You can also add vegetables like frozen peas or spinach to boost nutrition. To save time, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy chicken mac bake as a comforting main dish, and pair it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Chicken Artichoke Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier dinner, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a side of roasted broccoli.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled cheesy chicken mac bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Chicken Mac Bake contains roughly 1518 calories, with 17g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 110g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (105% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1739mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute gluten-free elbow macaroni for the traditional pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking times.
What kind of chicken should I use?
You can use cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, or poach and shred your own chicken breasts. Both options work well and add delicious protein to your dish.
Can I freeze the cheesy chicken mac bake?
Yes, you can freeze the dish before baking. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).