Tender chicken and classic elbow macaroni bring comfort to the table with every bite. This hearty dish combines creamy, cheesy goodness with satisfying protein to create a meal that fills both the belly and the soul.
Simple ingredients come together to deliver big flavor and warm, nostalgic vibes. Golden cheese coats every curve of the macaroni while juicy chicken pieces add substance and richness. The combination hits that perfect spot between indulgence and ease.
You won’t need complicated steps or fancy ingredients to make it taste incredible. Just real food, real flavor, and a dish that makes everyone feel at home. Kids love it.
Grown-ups devour it. Leftovers rarely stand a chance. Serve it straight from the skillet or bake it for an extra layer of golden, bubbly cheese. Dinner just got a whole lot better and cozier.
Chicken With Elbow Macaroni
Chicken with elbow macaroni is a warm and filling meal. It combines tender chicken, soft pasta, and a creamy or tomato-based sauce.
Easy to cook and great for families, this dish works well for lunch or dinner. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something simple and tasty.
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Serving: 4 people
- Calorie: 410 per serving
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Pasta
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2 cups elbow macaroni
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Water for boiling
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1 teaspoon salt
For the Chicken
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2 chicken breasts, diced
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1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or olive)
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Sauce (Creamy version)
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups milk
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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Salt to taste
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Pepper to taste
For a tomato-based version, swap the creamy sauce with 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce and skip flour, butter, and cheese.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Boil water in a large pot. Add salt.
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Pour in elbow macaroni and cook for 8–10 minutes or until soft.
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Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
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Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
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Add diced chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes.
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Stir often until golden and cooked through.
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Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
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In another pan, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add flour and stir for 1 minute.
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Pour in milk slowly while stirring.
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Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
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Add shredded cheese. Stir until melted.
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Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Mix Everything
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Add cooked macaroni and chicken to the sauce.
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Stir well to coat everything evenly.
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Cook for 2 more minutes to warm it all together.
Step 5: Serve
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Spoon into bowls or plates.
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Garnish with a little extra cheese or chopped parsley if you like.
Top Tips
Keep it Fresh
Use fresh chicken for better taste. Frozen chicken works too, but thaw it first.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Boil just until soft. Too much cooking makes it mushy.
Stir the Sauce
Keep stirring to avoid lumps. Slow and steady wins.
Try Cheese Blends
Mix cheddar with mozzarella for a gooey twist.
Variations
Tomato Style
Use tomato sauce instead of cheese sauce for a lighter flavor.
Add Veggies
Throw in peas, carrots, or bell peppers. Cook them with the chicken or add later.
Spice It Up
Add chili flakes or hot sauce if you like heat.
Use Different Pasta
Penne or shells work fine too if you don’t have elbows.
Make It Creamier
Add a spoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 410
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Protein: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 35g
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Fat: 18g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 4g
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Sodium: 620mg
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes. Shred it and add during the final mix. It saves time.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Let it cool and store in airtight containers. Reheat in a pan or microwave.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Use plant milk and skip the cheese. Add some cooked veggies for flavor.
What can I serve it with?
Try garlic bread or a green salad on the side.
Conclusion
Chicken with elbow macaroni is easy, tasty, and filling. It works for kids and adults. You can keep it classic or make changes to suit your taste. Try it once, and it might just become a weekly favorite.
