Creamy Mac & Cheese, Mashed Potatoes & Seared Chicken
This meal brings three comfort food favorites together: extra-creamy mac and cheese, fluffy mashed potatoes, and perfectly seared chicken. It’s hearty, cozy, and perfect for when you want a filling, indulgent dish.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: ~1 hour
Servings:4
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano
Salt & black pepper
For the Creamy Mac & Cheese:
8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni (or any pasta)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
Pinch of nutmeg
Salt & pepper
For the Mashed Potatoes:
4 medium potatoes, peeled & cubed
3 tbsp butter
1/2 cup warm milk or cream
Salt & black pepper
Instructions
1. Make the Chicken
Season chicken with garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Rest before slicing.
2. Cook the Mashed Potatoes
Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15–20 minutes).
Drain, mash with butter and milk until smooth.
Season with salt and pepper.
3. Make the Mac & Cheese
Cook pasta until al dente, drain.
In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream until smooth.
Stir in cheese until melted and creamy.
Add Dijon and nutmeg if using, season with salt and pepper.
Mix pasta into sauce until well coated.
4. Plate It Up
Serve creamy mac & cheese alongside a scoop of mashed potatoes.
Add sliced seared chicken on the side.
Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese.
Notes & Tips
For lighter mashed potatoes, swap half with cauliflower.
Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor, or mix cheeses (cheddar, gouda, mozzarella).
Add garlic or chives to mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
Chicken can also be grilled or baked if preferred.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 780 kcal
Protein: 48g
Carbs: 62g
Fat: 36g
Fiber: 4g