Delicious Creamy Chicken Enchilada Mac and Cheese Recipe: Easy & Cheesy Comfort Food

If you haven't yet ventured into the world of fusion comfort foods, let me introduce you to the ultimate dish that will rock your taste buds: Creamy Chicken Enchilada Mac and Cheese. Imagine combining the gooey, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the rich, flavorful punch of enchiladas. It's a match made in culinary heaven and, trust me, your family will thank you for it!

Ingredients:

• 1 box of cooked macaroni

• 2-3 cups of shredded chicken

• 8 Guajillo chiles 

• 1/2 onion 

• 2 to 4 garlic cloves

• 1 tbsp butter + 1 tbsp AP Flour

• 1/2 cup panko crumbs + 1/4 cup cotija Cheese + 2 tbsp melted butter

• 3 cups heavy whipping cream or half & half

• 1 1/2 cup shredded medium cheddar

• 2 cups shredded Oaxaca cheese or mozzarella cheese

• 2 tbsp tomato chicken bouillon

• 1 1/2 tbsp Mexican oregano 

• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Soak the guajillo chiles in warm water for about 10 minutes. Blend the soaked chiles with garlic cloves and enough chicken broth to make a smooth sauce. Optionally strain the sauce if desired for a smoother consistency. 

2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the flour and cook for about 10 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Gradually add the heavy whipping cream and stir to combine. Add the prepared enchilada sauce and mix well. 

3. Add the chicken bouillon and crushed Mexican oregano. Stir to combine. Add the softened onions if using. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

4. Slowly add the shredded cheese a handful at a time, stirring continuously to ensure it melts smoothly. Once the cheese sauce is creamy, add the shredded chicken and precooked macaroni. Stir until it is fully combined. 

5. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Add cotija cheese if using. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. 

6. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the dish is bubbling around the edges. Check after 10 minutes to ensure the top isn't burning. If needed, cover with foil to prevent over-browning. 

7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. 
   

Feel free to customize the recipe to your liking and preferences. Enjoy this delicious cheesy chicken enchilada mac & cheese!

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