Creamy, cheesy, and packed with a gentle kick of spice, this White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese recipe is the perfect blend of comfort food and bold flavors. It brings together two favorites—white chicken chili and classic macaroni and cheese—into one irresistibly creamy dish. Imagine tender chunks of chicken, a velvety cheese sauce, a hint of green chilies, and a touch of heat, all swirling around perfectly cooked pasta.

This dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights and an instant crowd-pleaser at gatherings. Whether you need a cozy dinner idea, a hearty potluck contribution, or a one-pot meal that leaves everyone asking for seconds, this easy recipe checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into the bold and creamy world of White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese.

Ingredients for White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
2 cups elbow macaroni (or cavatappi for extra texture)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (4 oz) can green chilies
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the macaroni (or cavatappi) according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Avoid overcooking since the pasta will continue to soften in the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet or deep pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Add the green chilies, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the mixture cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the oil.

Step 4: Create the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about a minute until it forms a thick paste. This step will help thicken the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps, followed by the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, one handful at a time. Mix until completely melted and smooth.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Add the cooked chicken and optional frozen peas or corn into the sauce. Then, fold in the cooked pasta, stirring gently to coat every piece with that luscious, cheesy chili sauce.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro or parsley on top and serve immediately while it’s hot and creamy. Optional: broil the pan in the oven for 2–3 minutes to create a golden cheesy top.

Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings)

Calories: ~530
Protein: 32g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 680mg

Nutrition may vary based on ingredient brands and optional additions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this dish and cuts down prep time significantly.

2. Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild heat from the green chilies and spices, but you can adjust the spice level easily by adding more or less chili powder or omitting the green chilies.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. Try pepper jack for extra heat or mozzarella for more gooeyness. Avoid pre-shredded cheese for better meltability.

4. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

5. What veggies can I add?

Great options include corn, peas, spinach, or even diced bell peppers. Sauté or steam them before mixing in.

6. Can I make it in advance?

Definitely. Prepare everything, then refrigerate it. Reheat gently with a splash of milk before serving.

7. Is it good for meal prep?

Yes. Divide into portions and store for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

8. Can I bake it with a breadcrumb topping?

Totally! Sprinkle a mix of breadcrumbs and grated cheese on top and bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe

Author: Sophia Langley
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors, this White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food fusion. Perfect for a quick dinner, hearty lunch, or even meal prep, this easy recipe combines the richness of macaroni and cheese with the zesty kick of white chicken chili. With tender chicken, melty cheese, and a hint of spice, it’s a cozy, soul-satisfying dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re searching for new dinner ideas, easy meals for the family, or just some savory food inspiration, this dish checks every box. The gooey texture and warm flavors make it an irresistible option for any day of the week.

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft (3–4 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
Add green chilies, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to bloom the spices.
Sprinkle in flour and stir for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth, then milk and heavy cream. Simmer until slightly thickened (5–7 minutes).
Lower heat and stir in cheeses until melted and smooth.
Add chicken and peas/corn if using. Fold in the cooked pasta until evenly coated.
Garnish with cilantro or parsley. Serve hot, or broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden top.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner