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- 1 pound elbow macaroni - 2 cups shredded cooked chicken - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded - 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated - 4 cups milk - 1/4 cup butter - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Homestyle Baked Mac and Cheese with Chicken

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy Chicken Mac & Cheese Delight. This family-friendly dish combines rich, cheesy flavors with tender shredded chicken for a satisfying meal. Crafted with a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, each bite is creamy and delicious. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs, this mac and cheese is baked to golden perfection. A perfect addition to any dinner table, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

4 cups milk

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 tbsp olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish (about 9x13 inches) with non-stick spray.

    Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes to form a roux.

        Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes.

          Remove from heat and gradually stir in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and creamy.

            Combine the chicken and macaroni: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, and sauce. Stir until everything is well coated.

              Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish.

                In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the olive oil and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.

                  Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

                    Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious homestyle baked mac and cheese with chicken!

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8