Chicken Mac and Cheese
Everyone loves mac and cheese. Adding chicken adds that protein you need to make this a complete meal and elevates a ho-hum side dish. Serve with a green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Entrées
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 8 ounces elbow noodles
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 3/4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the chicken breasts on the baking sheet, season with salt and pepper, and bake for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, then add the milk and cook until the sauce thickens about 5 minutes. Add the cheddar and whisk well.
- Cut the chicken into cubes. Add the pasta, season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir to combine. Garnish with chopped chives and serve.