Description
Mac and Cheese with Chicken Tenders is the ultimate comfort food that merges creamy, cheesy pasta with crispy chicken for a delightful meal. This dish evokes nostalgic memories of shared meals with loved ones, making it perfect for game nights or family dinners. Easy to prepare and customizable, it offers a delicious twist on a classic favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown, then slice into tender pieces.
- In another pot, melt butter over medium heat, stir in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Add shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.
- Combine cooked pasta and sliced chicken with the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes or until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg