Description
A creamy, cheesy delight that perfectly blends tender chicken with pasta for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add elbow macaroni, and cook until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- 2. Prepare the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter, then add diced chicken. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through (6-8 minutes).
- 3. Create the Cheese Sauce: In another saucepan, melt butter over low heat, whisk in flour until golden. Gradually pour in milk while stirring until thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- 4. Combine Everything: Mix cooked pasta with cheese sauce and sautéed chicken in a large bowl.
- 5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour mixture into a greased baking dish, top with panko bread crumbs, and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 830mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Customize by adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat carefully in the microwave.