Chicken and Bacon Macaroni Bake

This Chicken and Bacon Macaroni Bake is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender shredded chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and gooey melted cheddar cheese all baked to perfection. If you love hearty, cheesy pasta dishes that are easy to prepare and full of flavor, this recipe will quickly become a weeknight favorite. It’s creamy, savory, and has a satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb topping that makes every bite memorable. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this bake is a sure winner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Using pantry staples like elbow macaroni and shredded chicken makes this recipe incredibly accessible.
• Quick Prep: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something homemade without the fuss.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic and onion powders with cheddar cheese and turkey bacon creates a deliciously savory profile.
• Versatile: You can easily swap ingredients to fit what you have on hand or cater to different tastes.
• Meal-Friendly: It reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for leftovers or packed lunches.

What We’re Using

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto the cheesy sauce perfectly.
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Adds tender protein to the dish. Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works great here.
• 6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds smoky flavor and a crisp texture without overpowering the dish.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce for that rich, cheesy goodness.
• 1 cup milk: Creates a creamy base for the cheese sauce.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess to the bake.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle, aromatic depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Compliments the garlic for a balanced savory taste.
• Salt and pepper: To season everything perfectly.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Provides a crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy pasta beneath.

Must-Have Equipment

• Large pot: For boiling the macaroni to al dente.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the chicken, bacon, cheese, and sauce ingredients.
• Baking dish (9×13-inch works well): To bake the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly.
• Spoon or spatula: For mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure the right balance of flavors.

Directions: Chicken and Bacon Macaroni Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until just al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Bacon

If your chicken isn’t already cooked, poach or roast it until fully cooked, then shred into bite-sized pieces. Cook the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth. Add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and mix until the cheese starts melting into the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, and crumbled turkey bacon to the cheese sauce mixture. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the macaroni mixture into your baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top, followed by an even layer of breadcrumbs for that perfect crunchy topping.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

If you enjoy dishes like this, be sure to check out the Baked Chicken Bacon Macaroni for another variation packed with flavor.

Substitutions by Category

• Pasta: Swap elbow macaroni with penne, shells, or rotini depending on preference.
• Protein: Use cooked turkey, beef, or even plant-based chicken alternatives for a different twist.
• Bacon: Regular bacon or even smoked sausage can be used if you prefer a different smoky flavor.
• Dairy: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for variation.
• Milk: Any type of milk works here – whole, 2%, or a plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
• Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a great alternative for tang and creaminess.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give an extra crunch, or crushed crackers can be used instead.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Overcooked Pasta: If your pasta is mushy, reduce boiling time next time by a minute or two. It will continue to cook in the oven.
• Dry Bake: Make sure to use enough milk and sour cream in the sauce. If the bake seems dry, add an extra splash of milk before baking.
• Bland Flavor: Don’t skip the garlic and onion powders and seasoning. Taste the sauce mixture before baking and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Soggy Topping: For a crispier breadcrumb topping, toss the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling.

Prep Ahead & Store

This Chicken and Bacon Macaroni Bake is perfect for prepping ahead. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the bake before or after baking for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Handy Q&A

Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Absolutely! Regular bacon works wonderfully in this recipe and adds a richer smoky flavor. Just cook it until crispy and crumble it as you would the turkey bacon.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the chicken and bacon. Add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for extra flavor. Using a smoked cheese can help mimic that smoky taste.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Definitely. Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping.

What can I serve alongside this bake?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables balance the richness of the bake nicely. For a lighter option, consider a simple cucumber and tomato salad with a lemon vinaigrette. If you want to explore a pasta dish with a twist, try the Creamy Ranch Bacon Penne Pasta for more inspiration.

Because You Liked This

• Baked Chicken Bacon Macaroni – Another delicious baked pasta dish loaded with chicken and bacon.
• Creamy Ranch Bacon Penne Pasta – A creamy, ranch-infused pasta with crispy bacon that’s perfect for weeknights.
• Classic Macaroni and Cheese – A timeless recipe for the ultimate comfort food side or main.
• Chicken Alfredo Baked Pasta – Creamy Alfredo sauce combined with tender chicken and baked pasta.

Next Steps

Ready to elevate your pasta game? Experiment with adding your favorite veggies into the mix or swapping out cheeses to create your own signature Chicken and Bacon Macaroni Bake. Try doubling the recipe for gatherings or freezing individual portions for easy meals throughout the week. This dish is endlessly adaptable and always hits the spot.

With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and crispy topping, this Chicken and Bacon Macaroni Bake is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Gather your ingredients and enjoy the comforting flavors that everyone will love!

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