Introduction
Indulge in a bowl of pure comfort with this delicious Creamy Chicken Macaroni. This recipe takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying pasta dish. It features tender pieces of chicken and chewy macaroni noodles coated in a luscious, homemade white sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly and is a guaranteed hit with the whole family, from picky eaters to pasta lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Macaroni
- Ultimate Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and tender chicken are a classic combination that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
- Quick & Easy: This dish can be on the table in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, like mushrooms, peas, or spinach.
- Rich and Velvety Sauce: We’ll show you how to make a perfect, lump-free white sauce that coats every noodle.
- Kid-Friendly: A favorite for all ages, this is a dish that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Pasta:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups (200g) uncooked macaroni pasta
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) milk (whole milk works best for a creamier sauce)
- ½ cup (45g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- A pinch of salt and pepper to taste
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Large pot for pasta
- Large skillet or deep pan
- Whisk
- Spatula
Instructions
Part 1: Cook the Chicken and Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, but do not rinse it. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Part 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Melt Butter: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and garlic. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (this is called a “roux”).
- Add Milk: Slowly pour the milk into the skillet, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken.
- Finish the Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue to stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Part 3: Combine and Serve
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked macaroni and the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the sauce. Use a spatula to gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in the creamy sauce.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the creamy chicken macaroni hot. Garnish with a little extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
Storage and Essential Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Macaroni
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta will continue to cook slightly in the hot sauce.
- Use Whole Milk: For a truly rich and creamy sauce, whole milk is recommended. For a lighter sauce, you can use a lower-fat milk, but it may not be as thick.
- Prevent Lumps: Whisking constantly when you add the milk is the most important step for a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to sauté some sliced mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or a handful of spinach with the garlic for added flavor and nutrients.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to restore the creamy consistency.
Share Your Sweet Creation!
Did you make this comforting creamy chicken macaroni? We’d love to see it! Share your photos on Instagram and tag @FoodieIdeas and use the hashtag #CreamyChickenMacaroni. What’s your go-to pasta dish for a quick meal?