Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese! This decadent dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked macaroni, making it a comfort food favorite that’s sure to please everyone. With just the right blend of flavors and textures, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is rich and indulgent, bringing together the beloved flavors of crack chicken with the ultimate comfort food—macaroni and cheese. The creamy cheese sauce, along with the savory chicken and crispy bacon, creates a dish that’s impossible to resist!
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Baking dish (if baking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain. Leave the drippings in the skillet for added flavor.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the milk, cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and well combined. The sauce should be creamy and thick.
Step 3: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
- Add Chicken and Pasta: Stir in the shredded chicken and cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Add Crumbled Bacon: Gently fold in the crumbled bacon, reserving a bit for topping later.
Step 4: Bake (Optional)
- Preheat the Oven: If you want to bake the dish for a crispy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle extra shredded cheese and reserved bacon on top.
- Bake: Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
- Enjoy!: Serve warm and enjoy the rich flavors of this cheesy delight!
Tips for Perfect Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
- Chicken Options: Feel free to use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken for convenience.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese blends, such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for added flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to spice things up!
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. With its delicious combination of chicken, cheese, and bacon, it’s a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
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