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Close-up of creamy macaroni and cheese topped with sliced, seasoned grilled chicken breast in a pan. The pasta is coated in a rich cheese sauce, and the chicken is arranged on top.

Texas Queso Mac and Cheese with Smoky Blackened Chicken

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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 2 large chicken breasts, split in half lengthwise
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
  • 16 oz elbow noodles
  • 8 oz Mozzarella cheese, cubed
  • 8 oz pepper jack cheese, cubed
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar block, cubed
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or green onion for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Cook chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat after seasoning heavily with blackening seasoning
  • Sear 4–5 minutes per side until fully cooked, then rest and slice
  • Boil elbow noodles until al dente
  • In a large skillet, melt butter and add heavy cream + milk
  • Stir in cubed cheeses until smooth and creamy
  • Add your garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper
  • Fold in noodles until fully coated
  • Top with sliced blackened chicken and garnish if desired
  • Throw it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes if you want that bubbly golden cheesy top, about 400 degrees