Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—a creamy, cheesy, and spicy dish that brings together tender rotisserie chicken and macaroni in one baked masterpiece. Perfect for weeknight meals or family dinners, this recipe offers the ideal blend of rich Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and a touch of heat from hot sauce. If you’re a fan of easy pasta recipes and want to try a new twist, this dish will not disappoint. It’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients for Cheesy Macaroni and Cheese with Chicken
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
Instructions for Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
- Cook the Macaroni: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, mayonnaise, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, milk, heavy cream, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. For a spicier kick, add an extra splash of hot sauce.
- Add Chicken and Macaroni: Fold the shredded rotisserie chicken and cooked macaroni into the cheese mixture, ensuring the macaroni and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and melted butter, then sprinkle over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the baked macaroni and cheese to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, creamy, and spicy goodness!
Tips for the Best Spicy Macaroni and Cheese
- Cheese Variety: For an extra cheesy flavor, feel free to add more shredded cheese on top before baking. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or mozzarella for a creamier texture.
- Adjust the Heat: The hot sauce adds a nice kick to this dish, but if you’re serving it to kids or those sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Simply bake it when you’re ready for dinner.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a delicious gluten-free version.
Serving Suggestions
Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is a versatile dish that pairs well with simple sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or garlic bread. You can also serve it with a light soup like tomato basil for a more filling meal. If you’re hosting a casual dinner party, this cheesy baked dish makes for a crowd-pleasing entrée that everyone will love.
Variations
- Spicy Macaroni and Cheese: Want to turn up the heat? Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the mix.
- Extra Creamy: For a richer sauce, use more heavy cream in place of milk.
- Bacon Lovers: Crumble cooked bacon into the macaroni for added crunch and flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the rotisserie chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake it in the oven until heated through.
What are some good ingredient substitutes?
If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, you can use leftover cooked chicken or even canned chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider adding roasted veggies.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
What can I serve with macaroni and cheese?
This dish pairs well with simple sides such as green salads, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. It can also be served as a main dish during family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Is there a way to make it healthier?
You could use low-fat cheese and reduced-fat mayonnaise to lower the calorie content. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables could increase the nutritional value of the meal.
