Craving a comforting classic with a delicious twist? Look no further! This Mac N Cheese with Chicken and Bacon recipe takes the beloved dish to the next level, adding savory chicken and crispy bacon for an unforgettable flavor explosion. It's a perfect quick dinner idea, ideal for busy weeknights, and impressive enough for a weekend gathering. This easy recipe is a testament to how simple homemade cooking can be, resulting in a truly delicious dish. Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Add the cooked chicken, bacon, and macaroni. Stir until well combined.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Tips for the Best Mac N Cheese:
- For extra crispy bacon, bake the bacon in the oven instead of frying it.
- Use a combination of cheeses for a richer, more complex flavor. Experiment with your favorites!
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a little more milk. If it's too thin, simmer for a few more minutes.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
Variations:
- Veggie Mac: Add sauteed vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or mushrooms for a healthier twist.
- Buffalo Chicken Mac: Add a tablespoon or two of buffalo wing sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy, flavorful kick.
- Spicy Jalapeño Mac: Incorporate diced jalapeños into the cheese sauce for a zesty variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Fat: 25-30g Protein: 25-30g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together. The combination of creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy your elevated homemade mac and cheese experience!