Cozy White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe for Cold Days

Comfort food reaches new heights with this creamy white chicken chili mac and cheese that blends spicy and cheesy flavors into one irresistible dish.

Tender shredded chicken mingles with hearty pasta, creating a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.

Jalapeños and green chiles add a subtle kick to the rich, velvety cheese sauce.

Packed with protein and bold southwestern-inspired seasonings, this recipe delivers a delightful twist on classic mac and cheese.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and cheesy goodness that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

The combination of simple ingredients transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into something truly special.

Prepare to fall in love with this mouthwatering comfort food masterpiece that’s sure to become a family favorite.

White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese Flavor Points

• This White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese brings serious comfort food vibes that everyone will love, from kids to adults.
• One-pot magic makes cleanup a breeze and reduces kitchen stress, perfect for busy families wanting delicious meals without complicated preparation.
• Swap ingredients like different beans, salsa varieties, or cheese types to match your taste preferences or pantry inventory without compromising the dish's core deliciousness.
• Loaded with chicken, beans, and multiple cheese layers, this recipe delivers a nutritious meal that feels indulgent and satisfying without being heavy.

Ingredients for Chicken Chili Mac Magic

Main Ingredients:

• Chicken: A lean protein that provides the main source of meat in the dish.
• Beans: A hearty legume that adds texture and extra protein to the chili mac.

• Cream Cheese: A rich and creamy ingredient that helps bind the sauce.
• Shredded Cheese: Adds a melty, cheesy topping and additional flavor.

• Pasta: The base of the dish that provides a comforting and filling foundation.

• Onions, Poblano Peppers, Garlic: A flavor-packed combination that creates a robust and aromatic base for the chili mac.
• Salsa Verde, Green Chilies: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy element to the dish.

• Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Seasonings: A blend of spices that adds depth and complexity to the chili mac.

Tools for Making Chili Mac and Cheese

• Large Pot: Essential for cooking base, simmering chicken, and preparing pasta, with deep sides and sturdy construction.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients and preventing sticking without scratching pot surface.
• Cutting Board: Needed for chopping onions, poblanos, and preparing ingredients.
• Sharp Knife: Crucial for dicing vegetables and shredding cooked chicken.
• Cheese Grater: Helpful for shredding cheese quickly and evenly.
• Measuring Cups: Important for accurate ingredient quantities.
• Oven-Safe Dish: Required for final baking and cheese melting stage.
• Colander: Optional for draining if needed during recipe.

Step-by-Step Guide for White Chicken Chili Mac

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a sizzling 425F, getting ready for some cheesy magic.

Step 2: Sauté the Flavor Base

In a large pot, melt butter and toss in diced onions and chicken.

Brown everything over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.

• Minced garlic
• Chopped poblano peppers
• Your favorite spice blend

Cook for another 5 minutes until the kitchen smells incredible.

Step 3: Simmer the Chicken

Pour in chicken broth, partially cover the pot, and let everything bubble gently for 5-10 minutes.

Chicken should be perfectly cooked.

Pull out the chicken and shred it into tender pieces.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Drop pasta into the same pot with 2 cups of water.

Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Stir frequently for about 10 minutes until pasta reaches that perfect al dente texture.

Step 5: Create the Cheesy Masterpiece

• Cream cheese
• Shredded chicken
• Black beans
• Salsa verde
• Green chilies
• First portion of shredded cheese

Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and slide into the hot oven.

Bake 5-10 minutes until cheese transforms into a golden, bubbly blanket.

Chili Mac Tips for Creamy Results

• Use two forks to quickly and efficiently shred chicken, ensuring tender, bite-sized pieces that blend perfectly with the chili mac.
• Roast poblano peppers beforehand for a deeper, smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Let cheese come to room temperature before adding to help it melt smoothly and create a creamy, luxurious texture.
• Control heat levels by choosing mild or hot salsa verde, and adjusting the amount of poblano peppers to suit your spice tolerance.
• Use a large, oven-safe pot to minimize dish cleanup and create a seamless cooking process from stovetop to oven.

Chicken Chili Mac Custom Options

• Veggie Lover's Delight: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, use vegetable broth, and add extra vegetables like zucchini and spinach for a plant-based version.
• Gluten-Free Comfort: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from chickpea, rice, or quinoa flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Use ground turkey instead of chicken, add diced jalapeños, swap salsa verde with chipotle salsa, and sprinkle smoked paprika for extra heat.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles, use full-fat cream cheese, and increase protein content for a keto-friendly option.

Serving Suggestions for Chili Mac and Cheese

• Hearty Family Feast: Serve this creamy chili mac with a fresh green salad tossed in zesty lime vinaigrette for a balanced meal that combines comfort and nutrition.
• Southwest Style Plating: Garnish with crispy tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream to add vibrant texture and authentic southwestern flair to your dish.
• Spice Level Customization: Offer hot sauce or additional diced jalapeños on the side, allowing each person to adjust the heat intensity according to their personal preference.
• Protein Power-Up: Add extra protein by topping with diced avocado, grilled corn kernels, or a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a delicious and nutritious enhancement.

Storing White Chicken Chili Mac

• Store leftovers in airtight container for 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer to freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Separate into individual portions for easier reheating.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish, add splash of chicken broth to prevent drying. Heat on 50% power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Spread in baking dish, cover with foil, warm at 350F for 15-20 minutes. Uncover last 5 minutes to crisp cheese topping.

FAQs

• What makes this dish different from traditional mac and cheese?

This recipe combines the creamy comfort of mac and cheese with the zesty flavors of white chicken chili, creating a unique fusion that’s both hearty and exciting.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The dish has a mild to moderate heat level from poblano peppers and chilies, but you can adjust the spiciness by reducing or increasing the amount of peppers and salsa verde.

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

While the recipe works best with traditional elbow macaroni, you can substitute with similar short pasta shapes like shells or rotini that hold sauce well.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This one-pot dish reheats well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or preparing meals in advance.

White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty white chicken chili mac and cheese blends creamy comfort with spicy southwestern flavors. Cheese-coated pasta and tender chicken create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 can white beans, drained

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped
• 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
• 12 cup salsa verde
• Green onions for serving
• Cilantro for serving

Dairy, Seasoning, and Pasta:

• 2 tablespoons salted butter or olive oil
• 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• 2 cups shredded melty cheese (colby, cheddar, or pepper jack)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 12 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and black pepper
• 4 cups broth
• 1 pound short cut pasta

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F, preparing a baking-ready environment for the final culinary fusion.
2. In a large pot, sauté diced onions and chicken over medium-high heat for 5 minutes until chicken begins to brown.
3. Incorporate minced garlic, chopped poblano peppers, and selected seasonings, continuing to cook for an additional 5 minutes to develop robust flavors.
4. Pour chicken broth into the pot, partially cover, and allow the mixture to simmer 5-10 minutes until chicken is thoroughly cooked.
5. Remove chicken from the pot, shred using two forks, and set aside for later incorporation.
6. Add pasta and water directly to the seasoned pot, bringing to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring periodically to prevent sticking.
7. Blend cream cheese into the pasta mixture, creating a creamy base for the dish.
8. Reintroduce shredded chicken, add beans, salsa verde, and green chilies, stirring to distribute ingredients evenly.
9. Sprinkle one cup of cheese throughout the mixture, then transfer to a baking dish.
10. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 5-10 minutes until cheese melts completely and becomes golden and bubbly.

Notes

• Adjust Spice Levels Customize heat by choosing mild or hot poblano peppers and salsa verde based on personal preference.
• Protein Alternatives Swap chicken with ground turkey, shredded pork, or plant-based protein for dietary variety.
• Creamy Texture Trick Let cream cheese sit at room temperature before adding to ensure smooth, lump-free incorporation into the dish.
• Make-Ahead Magic Prepare the entire casserole ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve for convenient meal planning.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 90mg