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Homemade Smoky Chipotle Chicken Mac and Cheese photo
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Smoky Chipotle Chicken Mac and Cheese

This Smoky Chipotle Chicken Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and packed with smoky, spicy flavor for the ultimate comfort meal!
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cheesy, Chicken, Comfort Food, Easy, One-Pot
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste.
  • Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced chipotle in adobo sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and silky smooth.
  • Fold the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken into the cheese sauce, mixing gently to coat evenly.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked, crumbled turkey bacon evenly over the top, followed by the breadcrumbs.
  • Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. For extra crunch, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Colander
  • Baking dish or oven-safe skillet
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula

Notes

  • Warm milk and chicken broth before adding to the roux for a creamier sauce.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melt and flavor.
  • Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling for extra crunchy topping.
  • Substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon or omit for vegetarian version.
  • Freeze uncooked portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; thaw before baking.