Mac and Cheese Casserole with Chicken Recipe Th
Mac and Cheese Casserole with Chicken Recipe that warms hearts and fills your home with comfort in just 5 simple steps
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 1 lb, preferably breast meat, diced or shredded)
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded for best melt)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 1 minute less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Simmer gently until thickened.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Remove from heat and stir in 2 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- In a large bowl, mix the drained macaroni, shredded chicken, and cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and optionally 1 teaspoon melted butter.
- Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle topping evenly over.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until topping is browned and cheese is bubbling. Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Mac and Cheese Casserole with Chicken is a hearty, comforting dish combining creamy, cheesy pasta with tender chicken perfect for an easy weeknight meal.