Jalapeño Popper Chicken Mac and Cheese
A deliciously spicy and creamy mac and cheese dish with chicken and jalapeños.
Equipment
- 1 skillet to cook chicken
- 1 saucepan to make cheese sauce
- 1 baking dish greased
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 pound chicken breasts diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 jalapeños seeded and diced
Topping
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the macaroni until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a saucepan, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and milk. Stir over low heat until melted and smooth. Add diced jalapeños and mix well.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked macaroni, chicken, and cheese sauce until well combined. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Serving
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the pasta. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown. Serve hot.
Storage
- Allow to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeños.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use turkey or beef instead of chicken if desired.
How to Serve: Pair with a side salad or garlic bread.
Storage & Freshness: Best consumed within 3 days of making.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use turkey or beef instead of chicken if desired.
How to Serve: Pair with a side salad or garlic bread.
Storage & Freshness: Best consumed within 3 days of making.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.