Easy-to-Make Crack Chicken Mac and Cheese

Introduction

There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of creamy mac and cheese, especially when it’s loaded with flavors and textures that elevate it beyond the ordinary. That’s exactly what this Easy-to-Make Crack Chicken Mac and Cheese delivers. My family couldn’t get enough of it when I first whipped it up for dinner. The combination of tender chicken, savory ranch flavor, and melty cheeses creates a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make. It’s become a staple in our household, perfect for busy weeknights or when we have friends over. Everyone from the kids to the adults devoured it, and I found myself promising to make it again soon!

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (10.75-oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 (1-oz) packet ranch dressing mix
• 1½ cups cooked, chopped chicken
• ½ cup cooked, crumbled turkey bacon
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, ranch dressing mix, milk, and cooked chicken. Mix everything together until smooth and well-combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture, stirring gently to combine. If you’re adding crumbled turkey bacon, fold it in now.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set up a bit, making it easier to serve.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 550 kcal
• Total Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 28g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve

• Plating: Serve warm in bowls or on plates.
• Toppings: Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Additional Tips

1. Customize the Meat: You can substitute cooked chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
2. Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preferences. Pepper jack cheese can add a nice kick!
3. Make it Spicy: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for some heat.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
5. Add Vegetables: Toss in some cooked broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.

Recipe Variations

• Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: Swap out the ranch dressing mix for buffalo sauce and add cooked buffalo chicken for a spicy twist.
• BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: Mix in some BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian option.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread for a hearty meal.
• Offer a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Consider a glass of iced tea or lemonade to complement the flavors.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! To freeze, cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

• Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or shells.

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

• Absolutely! Prepare it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

1. What can I substitute for sour cream?

• Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream if you’re looking for a healthier option.

1. How do I know when the mac and cheese is done baking?

• The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the edges may be slightly golden.

1. Can I use store-bought shredded chicken?

• Yes, using store-bought or rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that saves time.

1. What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

• You can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade cream sauce as a substitute.

1. How spicy is this dish?

• The dish is not inherently spicy, but you can add spices or hot sauce to increase the heat level.

1. Can I add more cheese?

• Yes! Feel free to add extra cheese for a cheesier dish.

1. Is this dish gluten-free?

• It is not gluten-free, but you can use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

1. What can I serve with this dish?
   • Consider serving it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Easy-to-Make Crack Chicken Mac and Cheese is a dish that’s bound to please everyone at the table. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect comfort food option. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe delivers. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a family favorite that you find yourself making again and again! Enjoy the process and, most importantly, enjoy the delicious results.

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