Description
This creamy Chicken Mac and Cheese with crispy bacon is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender macaroni, savory chicken, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce. The crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the dish. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients
Scale
- Ingredients:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup bacon bits
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Directions:
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, then gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni, chicken, bacon, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra bacon bits or chopped green onions, if desired.
Notes
Healthy Ingredients for Protein Mac and Cheese
To make this dish both nutritious and tasty, consider using the following protein-packed ingredients:
- High-Protein Pasta – Instead of regular pasta, opt for pasta made from chickpeas, lentils, or quinoa. These options provide a higher protein content and are often gluten-free.
- Greek Yogurt – Greek yogurt is a fantastic source of protein and can replace some of the cream or cheese in your mac and cheese sauce. It also adds a creamy texture.
- Chicken or Turkey – Adding cooked chicken or turkey breast provides lean protein that complements the dish perfectly.
- Cheese Choices – Choose high-protein cheeses like cottage cheese or cheddar. These cheeses have a solid protein content and melt well for that classic creamy mac and cheese texture.
- Plant-Based Options – If you prefer plant-based proteins, tofu or tempeh can also be used to boost the protein levels in this dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: With bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 570 kcal
Keywords: protein mac and cheese