Chicken Macaroni Bake
A comforting baked pasta dish combining tender chicken, crisp mushrooms, and melted cheese, topped with mayonnaise and crunchy bread crumbs—perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the cooked macaroni and combine with chicken, cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, mushrooms, pimento, and mustard in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Spread mayonnaise evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Mix bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top of the mayonnaise layer.
- Optionally, crushed potato chips can be used instead of bread crumbs.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 45 to 50 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or using a combination of cream of chicken soup with sour cream. If you want to add more flavor, try incorporating herbs like thyme or parsley. For a lighter option, you can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Additionally, you can use any leftover chicken from dishes such as Chicken Marco Polo to save time.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Macaroni Bake is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For a festive touch, try it as a side dish to complement Southern Cornbread Thanksgiving Stuffing.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture for a better texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Macaroni Bake contains roughly 786 calories, with 6g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 889mg per serving (39% 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 different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp shredded cheese gives a nice flavor, you can mix it up with other cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey texture or cheddar for a sharper taste. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well to maintain the creamy consistency of the bake.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Chicken Macaroni Bake ahead of time. Assemble the dish without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
Can I add vegetables to the Chicken Macaroni Bake?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or broccoli can enhance the dish's nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to sauté or steam them slightly before mixing them into the casserole to ensure they cook properly during baking.
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).