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White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese

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A comforting fusion of creamy mac and cheese and hearty chicken chili, combining tender pasta with shredded chicken, zesty beans, spices, and melty cheddar.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or shells
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans (e.g., cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook pasta al dente according to package directions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.
  3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Add shredded chicken, beans, green chilies, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook 5 minutes.
  6. Lower heat and stir in milk and cream cheese (if using), stirring until the cream cheese melts.
  7. Remove from heat, stir in cooked pasta and 1½ cups of cheddar cheese until combined.
  8. Transfer mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheddar evenly on top.
  9. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
  • Add diced jalapeño for extra heat.
  • Skip chili powder to make it milder for kids.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently, adding splash of milk if needed.
  • For a cheesier crust, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—watch closely!

Nutrition

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/white-chicken-chili-mac-and-cheese/