Description
This Chicken Cheesy Macaroni Casserole is a simple, satisfying, and comforting dish. It turns basic ingredients into a warm, creamy casserole that is budget-friendly and delicious. It’s perfect for using leftover chicken and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs or crushed crackers
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese (if using) until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add cooked macaroni and chicken to the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated. This makes your Chicken Cheesy Macaroni Casserole.
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Mix melted butter with bread crumbs or crushed crackers and sprinkle over the top. This adds a nice crunch to your Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake.
- Top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. You’ve made a delicious Chicken Macaroni Cheese Bake.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving your Easy Chicken Macaroni Casserole.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
- Add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicier version, mix in jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
- Don’t overbake to prevent the casserole from drying out.
- Freeze before baking for a make-ahead meal option.
- This recipe is great for making a Chicken and Macaroni Cheese Casserole ahead of time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
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