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Homemade Creamy Chipotle Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe photo

Creamy Chipotle Chicken Mac and Cheese

This Creamy Chipotle Chicken Mac and Cheese is SO EASY! Tender chicken, smoky chipotle, and melty cheeses combine for a comforting, cheesy dish with a bold twist.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 lb chicken breast diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce finely chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the chopped chipotle in adobo sauce. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
  4. Lower the heat and gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
  5. Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet with the creamy chipotle chicken sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly with the cheesy, smoky sauce.
  6. Transfer the creamy chipotle chicken mac and cheese to serving bowls. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Notes

  • Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid mushiness when mixed with sauce.
  • Adjust chipotle in adobo sauce amount to control the spice level.
  • For extra smoky flavor, add smoked paprika with the garlic and onion powders.
  • Use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for perfect meltability and flavor balance.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.