Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese with Chicken: A Customizable One-Pot Meal

Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that can be elevated to new heights by adding some exciting ingredients. In this recipe, we'll show you how to make a delicious Instant Pot macaroni and cheese with chicken that's customizable to your taste.

Add Some Spice: Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you like a little heat in your mac and cheese, try adding shredded rotisserie chicken and hot sauce for a spicy kick. This buffalo chicken twist adds a fun and exciting flavor to the classic dish.

Quick and Easy Combinations

For a quicker meal, try pairing cubed ham and peas or cooked meats such as sausage, chicken, or crumbled bacon with your macaroni and cheese. These combinations are easy to prepare and add plenty of flavor to the dish.

Get Creative: Add Steamed Veggies

To make your mac and cheese more substantial, try adding steamed veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, or cooked peas. Simply mix them in after cooking the pasta and before baking for a nutritious and filling meal.

Cheese, Glorious Cheese

The key to making great macaroni and cheese is using a blend of cheeses that melt well together. In this recipe, you can use a combination of cheddar, Colby, Monterey Jack, Gouda (plain or smoked), or Gruyere cheese. Remember to grate your own cheese for the best results, as store-bought pre-shredded cheese can have a coating that prevents it from melting properly.

Tips and Variations

To take your mac and cheese to the next level, try substituting chicken broth for water when cooking the pasta in the Instant Pot. This adds extra flavor to the dish and makes it more satisfying. You can also customize the seasonings to your taste by trying different combinations of salt, pepper, and other spices.

With these tips and variations, you can make a delicious and customizable Instant Pot macaroni and cheese with chicken that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you like it classic or with a twist, this recipe is a great starting point for any meal. Happy cooking!

Instant pot macaroni and cheese with chicken