Macaroni and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Description:
Indulge in the comforting goodness of this Macaroni and Chicken Casserole, a delightful creation from lovewithrecipes.com. This one-dish meal combines tender chicken breast, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked macaroni, all baked to golden perfection. Ideal for lunch, snacks, potlucks, or any occasion where you crave a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s both easy and inexpensive to prepare.
Key Information:
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Category: One Dish Meal
- Keywords: Lunch/Snacks, Chicken Breast, Chicken, Poultry, Cheese, Vegetable, Meat, Polish, European, Kid Friendly, Potluck, < 60 Mins, Oven, Easy, Inexpensive
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 366.2
- Fat Content: 8.3g
- Saturated Fat Content: 4.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 21.6mg
- Sodium Content: 712.7mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 58.1g
- Fiber Content: 2.4g
- Sugar Content: 1.6g
- Protein Content: 13.6g
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded American cheese
- 14 ounces macaroni
- 3 cups cooked chicken breasts, diced
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 3-quart baking dish by greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour until well combined, forming a roux.
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Add Liquid Ingredients: Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 3 minutes.
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Incorporate Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and add the shredded American cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Combine Ingredients: To the cheese sauce, add the cooked macaroni and diced chicken breasts. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
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Bake the Casserole: Transfer the macaroni and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
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Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures a perfect serving temperature.
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Enjoy: Serve your delicious Macaroni and Chicken Casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Pair it with a side salad or your favorite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
This hearty casserole is sure to become a family favorite, loved by kids and adults alike for its creamy texture and irresistible flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with loved ones, this recipe promises to deliver pure comfort in every bite. Treat yourself to this delightful dish and savor the joy it brings to your table! 🍲✨
