Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Bake
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken, this comforting Chicken Macaroni Bake is the perfect family-friendly casserole for any night of the week. Juicy seasoned chicken is baked together with tender macaroni in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, then topped with a golden layer of melted cheddar for the ultimate comfort-food experience. Every bite is warm, satisfying, and loaded with homestyle flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy weekend dinners, this easy one-pan meal combines simple ingredients into a deliciously hearty dish that feels like a hug in a casserole dish.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6–8
Ingredients
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of chicken soup
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and lightly brown the chicken for 3–4 minutes. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked macaroni, chicken broth, heavy cream, cream of chicken soup, onion, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Stir in the browned chicken and mix until everything is evenly combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil, stir gently, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad.
Pair with steamed vegetables or roasted broccoli.
Enjoy with warm garlic bread for a complete comfort-food meal.
Tips
Rotisserie chicken can be used for an even quicker version.
Add cooked bacon, mushrooms, or peas for extra flavor and texture.
For a spicy kick, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting, this Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Bake is a crowd-pleasing dinner that brings warmth and flavor to every table!
