Cheesy Chicken Taco Macaroni and Cheese

Welcome to a culinary delight that combines the best of two worlds: Chicken Taco Mac Cheese. This recipe is a game-changer for those seeking a creative twist on classic comfort food. Picture tender chicken, zesty taco seasoning, gooey cheese, and hearty macaroni all coming together in one deliciously satisfying dish.

As a food blogger and parent who understands the struggle of pleasing picky eaters, I can attest to the magic of this Chicken Taco Mac Cheese. It’s a clever solution for those pasta-loving little ones who need a nutritious boost. The fusion of taco flavors with creamy mac and cheese is nothing short of genius, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or looking for a stress-free meal option on busy weeknights, this recipe is a winner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings like sour cream, cilantro, or extra cheese. With its versatility and crowd-pleasing taste, Chicken Taco Mac Cheese is sure to become a regular star in your meal rotation.

Quick Benefits

• Creative way to sneak protein and vegetables into a kid-friendly meal
• Versatile recipe – can be made with ground beef, black beans, or different cheeses for variety
• Easy to make and a great option for busy weeknights
• Leftovers store well in the fridge and make convenient lunch portions

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Taco Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

• Easy and quick dinner option for busy weeknights
• A creative twist on classic mac and cheese that kids and adults will love
• Sneaks in protein and vegetables without sacrificing the cheesy pasta goodness
• Versatile – can customize with different proteins, beans, and cheeses
• Great for picky eaters who love pasta but need more variety in their meals
• Makes for a satisfying meal on its own or can be paired with tortilla chips and a salad for a complete dinner
• Reheats well, making it a perfect option for leftovers or meal prep
• Adds a Mexican flair to your dinner rotation without being overly complicated

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Taco Macaroni and Cheese

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• ½ cup whole milk
• 2½ cups elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 10 oz can Rotel tomatoes (undrained)
• 8 oz can tomato sauce

Seasonings and Garnish

• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Taco Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Cook Chicken and Onion

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add cubed chicken and chopped onion. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and dried cilantro. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until chicken is almost cooked through.

Step 2: Add Pasta and Liquids

Combine minced garlic with elbow macaroni, chicken broth, undrained Rotel tomatoes, and tomato sauce, stirring well to evenly mix.

Step 3: Bring to Boil

Slightly increase heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. When steady bubbles appear throughout, proceed to the next step.

Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta is Done

Lower the heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and simmer for approximately 12 minutes until the pasta is tender, stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish

Take the pot off the heat and mix in the shredded Colby Jack cheese and milk. Allow it to rest for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and forms a creamy sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Serve hot with fresh chopped cilantro on top. For a thicker consistency, let it sit for a few minutes as it will continue to thicken as it cools.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Chicken Taco Mac Cheese, allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing them. Transfer the dish to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of milk to prevent the dish from drying out in the microwave. The Chicken Taco Mac Cheese can be stored in the fridge for a few days, making it convenient for meal prep or enjoying as leftovers for lunch.

For longer storage, you can also freeze the Chicken Taco Mac Cheese. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. The frozen dish can be reheated in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy. Remember to adjust the consistency with a bit of milk as needed during reheating to maintain a creamy texture. By storing the Chicken Taco Mac Cheese properly, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to enjoy at any time.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, both of which can absorb the flavors of the taco seasoning. Alternatively, you can use canned black beans or kidney beans as a protein source for a hearty and filling dish.

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses can be used instead of Colby Jack for a unique flavor profile. For a dairy-free alternative, use plant-based milk and vegan cheese to make this dish suitable for a vegan diet.

To add more texture and flavor, consider incorporating diced bell peppers, corn kernels, or zucchini along with the onions. This will not only enhance the nutritional value of the dish but also introduce additional layers of taste and color to the Chicken Taco Mac Cheese.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on serving this Chicken Taco Mac Cheese, consider turning it into a taco bar for a party or family gathering. Set out bowls of toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, and avocado slices alongside the dish. Let everyone customize their own bowl of mac and cheese with their favorite taco toppings for a festive and interactive meal experience.

Another creative serving suggestion is to use this Chicken Taco Mac Cheese mixture as a filling for stuffed bell peppers. Cut the tops off bell peppers, remove the seeds and membranes, and stuff them with the mac and cheese mixture. Top with a sprinkle of cheese and bake in the oven until the peppers are tender. This unique twist on stuffed peppers combines the flavors of tacos and mac and cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal.

FAQs for Cheesy Chicken Taco Macaroni and Cheese

Can I substitute ground beef for chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can easily substitute ground beef for chicken in this Chicken Taco Mac Cheese recipe. It will still turn out delicious with the taco flavors and cheesy goodness.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?

You can store leftovers of this Chicken Taco Mac Cheese in the fridge. It reheats well in the microwave, but you may need to add a splash of milk if it looks dry. It also makes decent lunch portions since it doesn’t get weird when it cools down.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of cheese to change the flavor profile of the dish. Consider using pepper jack for a spicier kick or a Mexican blend for more complexity.

What should I serve with this Chicken Taco Mac Cheese?

This dish is filling on its own, but you can serve it with tortilla chips on the side to make it feel more like a Mexican meal. Additionally, you can put out bowls of sour cream and extra cheese for those who want to add more toppings. A simple salad can help balance out the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

As you wrap up your culinary adventures with this Chicken Taco Mac Cheese recipe, remember that cooking is all about creativity and making meals that work for you and your loved ones. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this dish has the versatility to please even the pickiest of eaters. The fusion of classic mac and cheese with zesty taco flavors is a delightful surprise that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

So go ahead, give this Chicken Taco Mac Cheese recipe a try and make it your own with different variations and tweaks to suit your family’s preferences. Embrace the joy of cooking and sharing delicious meals with those you care about. Let the aromas fill your kitchen and the flavors warm your soul. Here’s to many more memorable meals centered around the comforting goodness of Chicken Taco Mac Cheese. Happy cooking!

Cheesy Chicken Taco Macaroni and Cheese

Satisfy picky eaters with this Mexican-inspired Chicken Taco Mac Cheese, a flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time30 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings (6 generous servings)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• ½ cup whole milk
• 2½ cups elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 10 oz can Rotel tomatoes (undrained)
• 8 oz can tomato sauce

Seasonings and Garnish

• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook Chicken and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add cubed chicken and chopped onion. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and dried cilantro. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until chicken is almost cooked through.
2. Add Pasta and Liquids: Combine minced garlic with elbow macaroni, chicken broth, undrained Rotel tomatoes, and tomato sauce, stirring well to evenly mix.
3. Bring to Boil: Slightly increase heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. When steady bubbles appear throughout, proceed to the next step.
4. Simmer Until Pasta is Done: Lower the heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and simmer for approximately 12 minutes until the pasta is tender, stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking.
5. Add Cheese and Finish: Take the pot off the heat and mix in the shredded Colby Jack cheese and milk. Allow it to rest for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and forms a creamy sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve: Serve hot with fresh chopped cilantro on top. For a thicker consistency, let it sit for a few minutes as it will continue to thicken as it cools.