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Chicken and Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake

Chicken and Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake
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Chicken and Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake is a creamy, comforting, and flavorful casserole featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and gooey melted cheddar cheese baked with macaroni pasta. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights and offers versatility with options for vegetarian, gluten-free, or spicy variations.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 300g macaroni pasta

Protein

  • 400g chicken breast or thighs, chopped into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables

  • 200g fresh mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy

  • 200g cheddar cheese, grated
  • 300ml milk (warmed)
  • 100ml cream (warmed)
  • 40g butter

Pantry

  • 40g all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 50g breadcrumbs
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Oil for sautéing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pasta and chicken: Boil the macaroni until just al dente, then drain and set aside. Meanwhile, heat a little oil in a pan, add the chopped chicken pieces, and sauté until cooked through and lightly golden. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep warm.
  2. Cook the mushrooms and aromatics: In the same pan, add sliced mushrooms, diced onions, and minced garlic. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and the onions become translucent, creating a flavorful base.
  3. Make the cheese sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in the warmed milk and cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until thickened, then stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine all the ingredients: Mix the cooked macaroni, chicken, mushrooms, and onions into the cheese sauce, stirring until everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top for crunch.
  5. Bake until bubbly and golden: Place the dish into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for more flavor depth and better melting quality.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; al dente texture prevents mushiness after baking.
  • Warm the milk before adding to the roux to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
  • Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling for an extra crispy and rich topping.
  • Allow the bake to rest before cutting to make serving easier and keep the structure intact.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken macaroni cheese, mushroom bake, comfort food, creamy casserole, easy dinner, family meal, baked pasta, gluten free options

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/chicken-and-mushroom-macaroni-cheese-bake/