Macaroni And Cheesy Chicken
Creamy macaroni and cheesy chicken combines tender pasta with melted cheddar and flavorful chicken, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni until al dente and drain.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and dry mustard until smooth.
- Gradually stir in milk and bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups of cheese, cooked macaroni, and chicken.
- Pour mixture into a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or sour cream to the cheese sauce. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, any small pasta like shells or penne can work. You can also use different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique flavor. If you want extra vegetables, add steamed broccoli or peas.
Serving Suggestions
This Macaroni and Cheesy Chicken pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, serve with garlic bread on the side. You can also sprinkle some crispy breadcrumbs on top before baking for added texture. Explore more American recipes for a diverse dinner menu!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Cheesy Chicken contains roughly 1234 calories, with 7g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 126g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (110% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 615mg per serving (27% 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 fresh chicken instead of leftover or canned chicken?
Yes, you can use cooked or shredded fresh chicken. Just ensure it’s pre-cooked before adding it to the cheese mixture to ensure everything heats through evenly.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute Cheddar cheese with Gruyère, mozzarella, or a cheese blend. Each will give a distinct taste to the dish while still providing the creamy consistency you want.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
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).