There's something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy chicken macaroni bake fresh out of the oven. This classic dish combines tender pasta, succulent chicken, and rich, creamy cheese to create a meal that's both hearty and satisfying. Whether you're preparing dinner for a busy weeknight or planning a special family gathering, these cheesy chicken macaroni recipes are sure to impress.

Classic Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Bake

This traditional recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook Pasta: Prepare the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, condensed soup, milk, and 1.5 cups of cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  5. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer.
  6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

This recipe offers a creamy and cheesy experience that's sure to become a family favorite.

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake

For those looking to elevate their cheesy chicken macaroni, this version incorporates mushrooms and a rich Parmesan sauce for added depth of flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 390°F (200°C).
  2. Cook Pasta: Boil the macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Sauté Vegetables and Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, and broccoli florets, cooking until tender. Stir in the cooked chicken.
  4. Prepare Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, mixing well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
  6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  7. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  8. Serve: Allow the bake to rest for a few minutes before serving.

This variation introduces a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a standout dish on any dinner table.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Bake

  • Cheese Selection: While cheddar is a classic choice, consider blending it with mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gouda for a more complex flavor profile.
  • Pasta Choices: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but shells, penne, or rotini can also work well, capturing more sauce in their crevices.
  • Add Vegetables: Incorporate veggies like peas, spinach, or bell peppers to add color and nutrition to your bake.
  • Breadcrumb Topping: For an extra crunch, mix breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking.
  • Make-Ahead: Assemble the bake ahead of time and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it until heated through and bubbly.

By experimenting with different ingredients and flavors, you can create a cheesy chicken macaroni bake that's perfectly tailored to your family's tastes. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!