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Crack Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 124 reviews
  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Crack Chicken Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic with tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a flavorful blend of spices baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a hearty dinner that combines rich cheese sauce, tender pasta, and savory chicken in one delicious casserole.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Chicken

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (Can substitute with rotisserie chicken.)

Cheese and Sauce

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (Shredded, divided)
  • 1 cup cream cheese (Cubed)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing

Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Garnishes

  • 1/2 cup crispy bacon (Crumbled)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (For garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni: Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the chicken broth, cream cheese cubes, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
  3. Mix pasta and chicken: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked macaroni, shredded cooked chicken, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the prepared creamy sauce. Stir everything well to evenly coat the macaroni and chicken with the sauce.
  4. Assemble casserole: Transfer the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the crumbled crispy bacon.
  5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly, melted, and golden brown.
  6. Garnish and serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped green onions before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

  • You can use rotisserie chicken as a convenient substitute to save prep time.
  • Make sure to fully cook and drain the macaroni to prevent sogginess in the final dish.
  • For extra smoky flavor, add more crispy bacon or sprinkle some smoked paprika.
  • This dish reheats well and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure ranch dressing is gluten-free.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: crack chicken mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, chicken casserole, baked mac and cheese, comfort food, shredded chicken recipe

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Find it online: https://bitesbyolivia.com/crack-chicken-mac-and-cheese-recipe/