White Chicken Chili Mac & Cheese is a comforting and delicious twist on traditional mac and cheese, combining the rich flavors of chili with creamy pasta. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why Make This Recipe
There’s something magical about combining two beloved comfort foods into one dish. White Chicken Chili Mac & Cheese brings together the creamy texture of mac and cheese with the hearty flavors of white chili, making it a great choice for those chilly evenings. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal in no time. The addition of chicken and white beans means you’re also getting a dose of protein, making it both wholesome and filling. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults, which is a win for any home cook!
How to Make White Chicken Chili Mac & Cheese
Making this hearty dish is straightforward, and the result is incredibly satisfying. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be serving up a bowl of creamy goodness in no time.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add the shredded chicken, white beans, and diced green chilies to the pot; mix to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the cooked macaroni, shredded cheese, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook over low heat, stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Pro Tips for Success White Chicken Chili Mac & Cheese
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Since the macaroni will cook a bit more in the pot with the other ingredients, cooking it al dente will prevent it from becoming too soft.
- Shredded Cheese: For the best melting results, use freshly shredded Monterey Jack cheese instead of pre-packaged cheese.
- Adjust Consistency: If the dish is too thick, feel free to add a little more chicken broth or cream for a creamier texture.
- Add Heat: If you enjoy a spicier dish, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when combining the ingredients.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator and heat it through before serving.
Flavor Variations White Chicken Chili Mac & Cheese
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutrition by mixing in some frozen corn, diced bell peppers, or spinach.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with other types of cheese like Pepper Jack for a spicy kick or Cheddar for a sharper flavor.
- Change the Protein: Swap the chicken for turkey or even try using shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- Beans Variety: Use black or pinto beans instead of white beans for a different texture and flavor profile.
- Herbs and Spices: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for added freshness, or experiment with a bit of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions White Chicken Chili Mac & Cheese
This dish is versatile and can be served as a main course or a hearty side. Pair it with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal. Cornbread or garlic bread makes a great accompaniment, soaking up any extra sauce. Additionally, you can serve it with tortilla chips or crackers for added crunch. A dollop of sour cream on top just before serving adds a nice creamy richness.
Storage and Freezing Instructions White Chicken Chili Mac & Cheese
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply heat it in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. If you prefer to freeze it, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. For the best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|———-|———|——-|—–|——-|——–|
| 550 | 30g | 50g | 25g | 6g | 720mg |
FAQ About White Chicken Chili Mac & Cheese
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re looking to make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. The cooking time may vary, so be sure to check the package instructions.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can skip the chicken and use vegetable broth along with extra beans and vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version of this recipe.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients (except for the cheese) into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Stir in the cheese just before serving for a creamy finish.
What kind of chicken should I use?
You can use any cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken thighs, or even leftover roasted chicken. Shredded chicken breast is also a great option for this recipe.
Can I add spices to increase the heat?
Certainly! If you like your chili mac with a kick, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the mixture while cooking. Adjust according to your heat preference!
Final Thoughts
White Chicken Chili Mac & Cheese is a unique, flavorful dish that combines the comforting nature of mac and cheese with the bold flavors of white chili. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s no wonder this recipe is quickly becoming a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps above, and enjoy a comforting bowl of this delicious dish with your loved ones!
Print
White Chicken Chili Mac & Cheese
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting twist on traditional mac and cheese, combining creamy pasta with rich flavors of white chili, chicken, and beans.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add the shredded chicken, white beans, and diced green chilies to the pot; mix to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the cooked macaroni, shredded cheese, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook over low heat, stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
For best results, use freshly shredded cheese and adjust the consistency with more broth or cream as needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
