Chicken Mac and Cheese
A comforting dish that combines creamy, cheesy pasta with tender chicken, perfect for cozy nights or family dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the cooked chicken. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until heated through.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Stir in the flour to create a roux, and cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well until the pasta is evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
- Garnish with paprika if desired and serve warm.
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.