If you’re craving a bite-sized comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with hearty chicken, you’re going to love this Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups Recipe. These delightful little cups pack all the cozy flavors of classic mac and cheese but with a fun, portable twist that makes them perfect for lunchboxes, gatherings, or just a comforting snack. They’re easy to whip up, incredible to eat, and hard not to share once they’re out of the oven!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential for creating the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors in your Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups Recipe. Each component brings something special, from the tender chicken to the melty cheese blend, making every bite pure comfort.
- Cooked elbow macaroni (2 cups): Provides the classic mac and cheese base with just the right bite.
- Cooked chicken breast, finely chopped (1 cup): Adds protein and a satisfying texture that complements the pasta.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1.5 cups): Brings sharp, rich flavor essential for creamy mac and cheese.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (0.5 cup): Offers a gooey, melty texture that helps bind the cups together.
- Milk (0.75 cup): Keeps the mixture creamy and moist during baking.
- Large egg (1): Acts as a binder to hold each cup in its perfect shape.
- Unsalted butter, melted (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and subtle flavor.
- Garlic powder (0.25 teaspoon): Infuses a mild, aromatic kick.
- Onion powder (0.25 teaspoon): Enhances depth of flavor without overpowering.
- Black pepper (0.25 teaspoon): Adds just a touch of heat and spice.
- Salt (0.5 teaspoon): Balances and elevates all the flavors.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Keeps the muffin pan greased so the cups release easily.
How to Make Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it warms up, generously spray a standard muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the mac and cheese cups won’t stick. This simple first step lays the foundation for easy removal and beautiful presentation.
Step 2: Combine the Macaroni and Chicken
In a large bowl, mix the cooked elbow macaroni with your finely chopped or shredded chicken breast. This combo forms the hearty base of the cups, bringing together tender pasta with lean, flavorful protein for a satisfying bite every time.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the macaroni and chicken mixture. The sharpness and creaminess of these cheeses are essential to achieving the luscious texture and irresistible flavor that make this Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups Recipe so special.
Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients and Seasonings
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will soak into the macaroni and cheese blend, helping to bind everything while adding richness and subtle seasoning depth.
Step 5: Combine Everything and Fill the Muffin Cups
Pour the milk and egg mixture over the macaroni, chicken, and cheese. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. Then, spoon the mixture into your prepared muffin pan, gently pressing down to pack each cup tightly so they’ll hold their shape beautifully during baking.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set
Place the muffin pan in the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. You’re looking for the tops to become lightly golden and the cups to feel set when touched. Once out of the oven, let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully removing to avoid breaking their delicate form.
How to Serve Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups Recipe
Garnishes
These cups are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. A light sprinkle of paprika or a dash of hot sauce also pairs wonderfully, especially if you like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
For a full meal, pair these mac and cheese cups with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. Their creamy richness balances nicely with the freshness and crunch of vegetable sides, creating a well-rounded plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your cups on a wooden platter with small dipping bowls filled with ranch dressing or marinara sauce for added flavor options. These also make charming finger foods at parties—just set them alongside other bite-sized appetizers for an inviting spread everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes them perfect for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
To freeze, place the cups on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy this comfort food whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through and the edges regain their slight crispness. Avoid overheating to keep the cheese from drying out or becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, small pasta shapes like shells or rotini work well too, as they hold the cheese sauce and fit nicely into muffin cups.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, this Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups Recipe is very kid-friendly. The cheesy, mild flavors and easy-to-hold size make it a hit with children and adults alike.
Can I add vegetables to the cups?
Definitely! Finely chopped cooked broccoli, peas, or even some sautéed spinach can be mixed in for extra nutrition and color without overwhelming the classic flavor.
What cheese options can I use if I don’t have cheddar or mozzarella?
You can substitute with similar melting cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend of mild cheeses to suit your taste. Just aim for a combination of sharpness and meltiness.
How do I make these cups gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients like seasonings and cheese are certified gluten-free. This swap maintains the deliciousness while accommodating dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about tuckable, cheesy bites that warm you from the inside out, and this Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups Recipe hits all those comfort food notes perfectly. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a cozy snack, these cups are sure to become a fast favorite. Give them a try and prepare to fall in love with this simple yet irresistible twist on classic mac and cheese!
Print
Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 12 cups
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and convenient Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups baked to golden perfection, combining tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and perfectly cooked macaroni in easy-to-serve muffin-sized portions. Perfect for lunches, snacks, or meal prep with a kid-friendly twist.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, finely chopped or shredded
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.75 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Seasonings
- 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- Nonstick cooking spray, for greasing muffin pan
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a standard muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine macaroni and chicken: In a large bowl, mix the cooked elbow macaroni with the finely chopped or shredded cooked chicken to create the base of the cups.
- Add cheeses: Add 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese and 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese into the macaroni and chicken mixture, stirring well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Prepare milk mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, large egg, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until fully blended to create a creamy binding mixture.
- Combine all: Pour the milk mixture over the macaroni and cheese blend, stirring thoroughly so every piece is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Fill muffin cups: Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin pan cups, gently pressing down to pack the mixture tightly so they hold shape while baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, until the tops are set, slightly golden, and cooked through.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cups to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully removing them. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- These Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups are ideal for packing into lunchboxes or prepping meals ahead of time.
- For added flavor and nutrition, mix in cooked broccoli, peas, or crispy bacon bits before baking.
