Ah, let me tell you about a dish that has stolen my heart and my taste buds – the **Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole with Chicken**! This glorious creation is the perfect blend of nostalgia and comfort food. I remember the first time I whipped this up; I was holding a big bag of Doritos, and it occurred to me – why not use these crunchy little gems to jazz up one of my favorites? And let me tell you, that moment firmly set me on the path of culinary bliss!
This casserole combines soft, cheesy pasta with the savory goodness of shredded chicken and a crunchy Doritos topping that gives it a unique twist. It’s like a party on a plate! Whether you’re hosting a potluck, making dinner for the family, or just having a movie night in, this dish is a surefire hit that will have everyone coming back for seconds (I know I do!). Let’s dive into the deliciousness that is Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole!
What’s in Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole with Chicken?
Elbow Macaroni: The backbone of this dish, macaroni gives that comforting pasta texture that just hugs all the flavors together. Make sure to cook it al dente for the best results!
Cooked Chicken: I usually opt for shredded rotisserie chicken because it’s simple and packed with flavor. You can use any leftover chicken you have too.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show! I love using sharp cheddar for that rich, bold flavor, but feel free to mix it up with your favorite cheese.
Sour Cream: This adds a lovely creaminess and a subtle tang that balances out the richness of the cheese.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This canned goodness is a huge time-saver and adds depth.
Milk: A splash of milk creates a perfectly creamy texture to bring everything together.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These spices add that extra oomph of flavor that keeps everyone guessing what makes this casserole so darn good!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings, of course! Adjust them to your preference.
Doritos: The final crunch! I like to use classic Nacho Cheese flavor, but let your imagination run wild. Spicy flavors can add a new kick!
Optional Garnish: Chopped green onions or parsley give a pop of freshness and color, making the dish presentable and delicious.
Is Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole with Chicken Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health! While this casserole is not exactly a low-calorie dish (it’s ooey-gooey cheesy goodness, after all!), it does have some redeeming qualities.
Chicken: Packed with protein that helps with muscle growth and repair, shredded chicken makes this dish filling and satisfying.
Cheese: Cheese provides calcium for strong bones, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love cheese?
Yogurt: Opting for low-fat sour cream can cut calories while still delivering creamy flavor.
However, because this dish is rich and can be high in fat and sodium (especially if you’re like me and don’t hold back on the cheese or the Doritos!), it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Balance it out with a side salad or some veggies to round out your meal.
Ingredients
– 8 ounces elbow macaroni
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups Doritos, crushed (plus more for topping)
– Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
**Serves:** 6-8 people, depending on how hungry you are!
How to Make Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole with Chicken?
1. **Preheat your oven** to 350°F (175°C). Let’s get that oven nice and toasty!
2. **Cook the elbow macaroni** according to package directions until al dente. Be sure to drain and set aside – no one likes soggy pasta!
3. In a **large mixing bowl, combine** the shredded chicken, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and some salt and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s smooth and creamy.
4. **Fold in the cooked macaroni** and gently stir until everything is beautifully combined. This is where the magic starts to happen!
5. Spray a **9×13-inch baking dish** with cooking spray, then pour the macaroni and chicken mixture into the dish. Spread it out evenly so each bite has some love.
6. **Top it off** with the remaining cup of cheddar cheese and crushed Doritos. Make sure to distribute them evenly – every bite should be cheesy and crunchy!
7. **Bake** in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until that cheese is all melted and bubbly around the edges.
8. Once finished, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish it with **chopped green onions or parsley** if you desire that extra touch.
Crunchy Variations and Serving Suggestions
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach directly into the mixture for some added nutrition. If you’re feeling a little spicy, consider using spicy Doritos or tossing in some diced jalapeños.
And you know what? This casserole is an absolute superstar when it comes to leftovers! Serve it with a simple side salad, and you’ve got yourself a complete, satisfying meal that everyone will love.
So there you have it! This Doritos Mac and Cheese Casserole with Chicken is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. I encourage you to give it a whirl and let the savory, cheesy goodness take you on a delicious adventure. When you try it, I’d love to hear your thoughts and any personal twists you make! Happy cooking!
