“Every now and then, you stumble upon a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. My Creamy One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into something extraordinary, combining tender chicken with cheesy pasta in a dreamy, slightly spicy sauce that wraps you in comfort. The best part? It comes together in just under an hour and all in a single pot, meaning fewer dishes and more time to savor the experience. Cozy up your kitchen as the aromas waft through the air and watch as this dish quickly becomes a family favorite. Curious about how to bring this comforting meal to your table tonight?” Why is this recipe a must-try? Simplicity at Its Best: This One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese is a breeze to make, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Comforting Flavors: The creamy, cheesy base complemented by tender chicken and spices make every bite a delightful experience. Quick Preparation: With a total cooking time of under an hour, you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying hearty meals with loved ones. Versatile Ingredients: Customize by adding your favorite toppings or swapping out ingredients. Think about a smoky twist with gouda cheese or adding beans for extra protein! Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot makes cleanup a cinch, allowing you to enjoy your delicious meal with ease. With so many reasons to love this dish, why not try it alongside other favorites like Sweet Chili Chicken or Hot Honey Chicken? Your dinner routine will appreciate the change! One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese Ingredients For the Base • Salted Butter or Olive Oil – Adds richness and flavor; can substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option. • Yellow Onion – Enhances the base flavor; use shallots for a milder taste. • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – The main protein source providing heartiness; thighs offer more flavor but can be substituted with turkey. • Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; feel free to increase for a stronger garlic taste. • Poblano Peppers – Contributes mild heat and flavor; substitute with bell peppers for no heat or jalapeños for more spice. • Ground Cumin, Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder – Provide depth of flavor and aroma; adjust quantities to taste depending on preferred spice level. • Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; use to taste. • Broth (Chicken or Vegetable) – Base for the dish; opt for low-sodium options to control salinity. For the Creamy Finish • Cream Cheese – Gives the dish a creamy texture; can substitute with ricotta for a different flavor profile. • White Beans – Adds protein and texture; can replace with black beans or omit for lower-calorie options. • Diced Green Chilies – Offers flavor and subtle heat; optional, omit for a milder dish. • Salsa Verde – Provides tanginess and additional flavor; use green enchilada sauce for a different taste. • Short Cut Pasta (Elbow Macaroni or Similar) – Main carbohydrate element; swap with gluten-free pasta if needed. • Shredded Melty Cheese (Colby, Cheddar, Pepper Jack) – Creates a gooey topping; customize blends for personal preference. For Garnish • Green Onions and Cilantro – For garnish and fresh flavor boost; substitute with parsley if desired. This One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese is the comfort food you’ve been craving. Gather your ingredients and let the cozy cooking begin! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac And Cheese Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, grab a large pot or Dutch oven and place it over medium-high heat. Add in salted butter or olive oil, then toss in a finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for approximately 5 minutes until the onion is translucent and aromatic. Step 2: Cook the Chicken Next, add boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs to the pot, cooking them alongside the onions. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, about 5 minutes. The chicken should begin to brown slightly. Once aromatic, it’s time to incorporate some flavor by adding minced garlic and diced poblano peppers. Step 3: Season and Sauté Sprinkle in ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Sauté the mixture for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the spices to release their flavors and the peppers to soften. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist the One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese. Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer Pour in low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth and stir thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, partially covered. Allow the chicken to cook through for about 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Step 5: Shred Chicken and Cook Pasta Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set aside the shredded chicken while adding the short-cut pasta and 2 cups of water to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente. Step 6: Create the Creamy Mixture Stir in cream cheese until it’s well incorporated, followed by the shredded chicken, white beans, salsa verde, and diced green chilies. Cook on low heat until the sauce is creamy and everything is heated through, usually about 3 minutes. The One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese will start to come together beautifully. Step 7: Bake for the Perfect Finish Remove the pot from heat, and sprinkle the top with your choice of shredded melty cheese. Transfer it to the preheated oven and bake for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and slightly browned on top. Step 8: Serve with Fresh Garnish Once the One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese is out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Dive in while it’s hot—enjoy each comforting bite! One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese Variations Feel free to mix things up and make this dish your own—with these delicious variations, you can customize every comforting bite! Vegan Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas and cream cheese with cashew cream for a plant-based delight. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy comfort food without any meat or dairy! Extra Veggies: Toss in vegetables like spinach, kale, or corn to amp up the nutrition and color. These additions are not only tasty but also create a vibrant dish full of life. Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked gouda cheese for a rich, smoky twist that complements the spices beautifully. This elevates the flavor profile and adds a delicious depth to each bite. Spicy Kick: Feeling adventurous? Add in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to turn up the heat. You can control how spicy it gets based on your guests’ preferences! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs while still enjoying this creamy delight. You won’t even notice the difference! Cheesy Bliss: Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack for a zesty flavor, or mix in some parmesan for a salty punch. The creaminess will still shine through! Crispy Topping: For a crunchy finish, top with crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs before baking. This added texture creates a delightful contrast to the creamy base. Flavor Booster: Substitute the broth with a robust beer for a unique and rich flavor. This twist is bound to impress at your next gathering! Enjoy this cozy dish in so many ways, and don’t forget to pair it with a fresh side salad or some crunchy crusty bread to soak up that delicious creamy sauce. After trying this, you might also love the Honey Garlic Chicken or a comforting bowl of Bbq Chicken Roasted. Happy cooking! Make Ahead Options These One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the chicken, vegetables, and spices up to 24 hours in advance by chopping the onions, peppers, and mincing the garlic, then storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the pasta and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to finish the dish, simply sauté your prepped ingredients, add in the broth, cooked pasta, and the remaining components, and bake as directed for a delicious meal that’s just as comforting as if you made it fresh! What to Serve with One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese? Indulge in a cozy and comforting meal experience that complements the creamy essence of your dish and excites your palate. Crispy Garlic Bread: This crunchy accompaniment adds a satisfying texture, perfect for mopping up the cheesy goodness. Simple Side Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, cucumber, and tomatoes enhances the meal with a splash of brightness and crunch. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers provide a lovely contrast to the creamy mac and cheese while boosting nutrition. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet and fluffy, these muffins add a delightful side that pairs perfectly with the spices in the chili mac. Spicy Jalapeño Poppers: Bring the heat! These crunchy, cheesy bites echo the flavors of your chili mac for a fun, bold touch. Chilled White Wine: A light, crisp wine like a Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness and complements the spices beautifully. Embrace these pairings to elevate your dining experience while savoring every comforting bite of your One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese! How to Store and Freeze One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. For quicker results, use the microwave, stirring occasionally. Reviving Creaminess: Add a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating to restore the creamy texture of the One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese. Expert Tips for One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac And Cheese Creamy Consistency: Beat the cream cheese until smooth before adding it to ensure a velvety sauce. Perfect Pasta: Check the pasta’s doneness a minute early; it will continue to cook in the oven, preventing overcooking. Cooking Vessel: Use a cast-iron dish or an oven-safe skillet for optimal heat retention and even cooking results. Spice Adjustments: Tailor the spice levels by reducing or omitting chilies and using less chili powder for a milder flavor. Fresh Garnish: Don’t skip the green onions and cilantro; they add a burst of freshness that lifts the overall flavor of the dish! One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs for a more flavorful dish, but chicken breasts work well too. Look for chicken that is firm and has a pinkish color. Avoid any chicken with dark spots or an off smell for the best results. What’s the best way to store leftovers? After letting the dish cool, store your leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. It’s best to allow it to cool completely before sealing it to maintain freshness and prevent condensation. Can I freeze this dish? Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese in a freezer-safe container. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. How do I reheat it while keeping it creamy? Reheat the pasta in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. For microwave reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to help restore the creamy texture. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Is this dish suitable for people with dietary restrictions? If you’re looking for alternatives, it’s quite easy to make the One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese suit various diets. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas and the cream cheese with cashew cream. Always check for allergies, especially with ingredients like salsa verde, which might contain allergens. What if the pasta becomes too soft? Very! To avoid overcooking your pasta, check for doneness a minute early while it’s simmering in the pot. Remember, it’ll continue to cook while baking in the oven. If you do find your pasta too soft, you can try to balance it by adding in fresh veggies for added texture when you reheat. One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese for Cozy Nights A comforting One Pot White Chicken Chili Mac and Cheese perfect for chilly evenings, combining chicken, cheesy pasta, and mild spices. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 tablespoons Salted Butter or Olive Oil Can substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option.1 medium Yellow Onion Use shallots for a milder taste.1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs Thighs offer more flavor but can be substituted with turkey.2 cloves Garlic Feel free to increase for a stronger garlic taste.1 medium Poblano Pepper Substitute with bell peppers for no heat or jalapeños for more spice.1 teaspoon Ground Cumin1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust quantities to taste depending on preferred spice level.to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.to taste Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.4 cups Broth (Chicken or Vegetable) Opt for low-sodium options to control salinity.For the Creamy Finish8 ounces Cream Cheese Can substitute with ricotta for a different flavor profile.1 can White Beans Can replace with black beans or omit for lower-calorie options.1 can Diced Green Chilies Optional, omit for a milder dish.1 cup Salsa Verde Use green enchilada sauce for a different taste.8 ounces Short Cut Pasta (Elbow Macaroni or Similar) Swap with gluten-free pasta if needed.1 cup Shredded Melty Cheese (Colby, Cheddar, Pepper Jack) Customize blends for personal preference.For Garnish2 tablespoons Green Onions For garnish and fresh flavor boost.2 tablespoons Cilantro Substitute with parsley if desired. Equipment large pot or Dutch oven Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Heat a large pot or Dutch oven on medium-high heat, add butter or oil, and sauté chopped onion for 5 minutes until translucent.Add chicken and cook alongside the onions for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once slightly browned, add minced garlic and diced poblano peppers.Sprinkle ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes to release flavors.Pour in broth and stir. Bring to a simmer, partially covered. Cook chicken for 5 to 10 minutes until it reaches 165°F (74°C).Remove chicken, shred it, and set aside. Add short-cut pasta and 2 cups of water to the pot. Boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes until al dente.Stir in cream cheese until incorporated, then add shredded chicken, white beans, salsa verde, and diced green chilies. Cook on low heat for about 3 minutes.Remove from heat, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and bake for 5 to 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.Let cool slightly, garnish with green onions and cilantro, and serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 36gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg NotesBeat the cream cheese until smooth before adding it. Check pasta doneness a minute early as it will continue to cook in the oven. Use a cast-iron dish for even cooking. Adjust spices to taste. Fresh herbs enhance the flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
