Cheesy Chicken Macaroni
What Started it all:
chicken, macaroni
A delightful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with creamy, cheesy macaroni. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. This recipe serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the macaroni and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the macaroni is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked macaroni and the chicken pieces to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine, ensuring all the macaroni and chicken pieces are coated with the cheese sauce. Serve the cheesy chicken macaroni in bowls or on plates. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy this delicious and creamy cheesy chicken macaroni with your family or friends. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that brings comfort and joy to the table. Happy cooking!