Chicken Bacon Mac and Cheese
Chicken Bacon Mac and Cheese : The Ultimate Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Bowl
What do you get when you mix tender chicken, crispy bacon, and ultra-creamy mac and cheese? A flavor bomb in a bowl. Chicken bacon mac and cheese is the ultimate in comfort food, rich, savory, and satisfying in every spoonful.
At Tasty Plated, Chef Rachael amps up this classic with layers of melted cheese, juicy chicken, crispy bacon bits, and a golden baked topping (if you want it). It’s a fast family favorite, a cozy cold-weather meal, and an indulgent dish that always delivers.
• What Makes Chicken Bacon Mac and Cheese So Irresistible?
This dish hits every craving: salty, creamy, cheesy, and smoky. Add chicken for protein and it becomes a full meal in one bubbling pan.
Here’s why it’s so addictive:
Three-cheese blend for creamy richness
Crispy bacon adds crunch and smoky flavor
Juicy chicken turns it into a hearty main dish
Optional baked crust makes it golden on top
Family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and weeknight-easy
• Chef Rachael’s Chicken Bacon Mac Method
Chef Rachael believes mac and cheese should always be easy, indulgent, and flexible. Her version at Tasty Plated is baked-optional, fully stovetop-friendly, and rich without being heavy.
Chef Rachael’s Key Tips
Use rotini or elbow pasta, it holds the creamy sauce perfectly
Mix cheeses: cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan are a perfect trio
Cook bacon until very crisp, then chop finely for topping and texture
Add a splash of pasta water to loosen sauce and keep it silky
Bake if you want crunch, but stovetop is fast and delicious as-is
Chef Rachael also suggests using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for speed and flavor.
• Tasty Plated’s Step-by-Step Chicken Bacon Mac and Cheese Recipe
This recipe serves 4-6 generous portions, perfect for dinner or leftovers.
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese,
12 oz pasta (elbows, shells, or rotini)
2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
1 cup shredded mozzarella
½ cup grated parmesan
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional)
Optional Topping (for baking),
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp melted butter
Extra cheese for topping
Instructions
Cook pasta to al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water. Drain and set aside.
Make the roux: In a large saucepan, melt butter. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute.
Add milk slowly, whisking to thicken into a smooth sauce.
Stir in cheeses, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Melt until smooth.
Add cooked pasta, chicken, and most of the bacon. Stir well. Add reserved pasta water if needed to thin.
Serve as-is or transfer to a baking dish.
Optional bake: Top with breadcrumb mix and extra cheese. Bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until golden.
Cheese Combos & Texture Table
| Cheese Blend | Flavor Profile | Texture Outcome | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheddar + Mozzarella + Parm | Sharp, stretchy, salty | Creamy, melty, and rich | Classic, balanced mac & cheese |
| Cheddar + Gouda + Swiss | Smoky, buttery | Silky, bold | More gourmet finish |
| Monterey Jack + Cream Cheese | Mild and rich | Extra creamy | Kids’ version, ultra soft |
| Vegan cheeses (Daiya, etc.) | Dairy-free, nutty | Soft, slightly melted | Plant-based adaptations |
• Toppings, Add-Ins & Customizations
Chicken bacon mac and cheese is a base for so much more. Customize it with:
Spicy kick: Add sriracha, jalapeños, or chipotle powder
Veggie boost: Stir in spinach, peas, broccoli, or mushrooms
Crunch factor: Add crushed Ritz, fried onions, or panko
Herb finish: Sprinkle parsley, thyme, or chives on top
Double meat: Add diced ham or Italian sausage for variety
Chef tip, Save some bacon for garnish right before serving, it keeps its crispiness and adds visual appeal.
• Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips
| Storage Method | Lasts For | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Fridge (sealed) | 3-4 days | Store in airtight container, reheat gently with splash of milk |
| Freezer (pre-baked) | 1-2 months | Freeze in portions, thaw before reheating |
| Freezer (post-bake) | Up to 1 month | Bake, cool completely, then freeze in foil-wrapped pan |
| Reheat tip | Low heat, covered | Stir frequently and add cream or milk if dry |
• FAQs About Chicken Bacon Mac and Cheese
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it’s fast, flavorful, and works perfectly.
2. Is there a gluten-free option?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and swap all-purpose flour for GF flour in the roux.
3. What if I don’t want to bake it?
Skip the oven. The stovetop version is just as creamy and takes less time.
4. Can I make it ahead for a party?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
• Conclusion
Chicken bacon mac and cheese is what happens when the best comfort food ingredients come together in one cheesy, delicious bowl. With creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and hearty chicken, every bite delivers rich, soul-warming flavor.
Chef Rachael’s method at Tasty Plated keeps it simple and stress-free, whether you’re cooking for family dinner or prepping for the week. Want more next-level comfort food ideas?
Visit tastyplated.com and turn every meal into something worth melting for.