Creamy Chicken Bacon Mac and Cheese

This indulgent mac and cheese recipe combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce for a comforting meal.

🥖 Ingredients:

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 8 oz (225g) macaroni
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken and Bacon:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie or grilled chicken works well)
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

🔪 Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni:
   • Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
   • Gradually whisk in milk, continuing to cook until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
   • Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and combined. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook the Chicken and Bacon:
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
   • Stir in diced chicken and cook until heated through.
   • Remove from heat and stir in crumbled bacon.
4. Combine and Serve:
   • Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
   • Gently mix in the chicken and bacon mixture.
   • Serve hot, garnished with extra crumbled bacon or chopped parsley if desired.

⏰ Preparation Time: 10 minutes
🍽️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes
🍴 Servings: 4-6

💡 Notes: For a crispy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and broil until golden brown. Add vegetables like peas or broccoli for extra nutrition.