Chili Chicken Mac Skillet – Comfort Food with a Kick

If you’re craving a hearty, one-pan meal that’s bursting with flavor, this Chili Chicken Mac Skillet is the answer. Combining tender chicken, creamy macaroni, beans, and a touch of spice, it’s comfort food with a zesty twist. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but satisfying enough to impress family or friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal = easy cleanup
• Combines chili spice with creamy, cheesy macaroni
• High in protein and family-friendly
• Perfect balance of cozy comfort food and bold flavors
• Ready in under 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until lightly browned, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in beans, tomatoes, chicken broth, macaroni, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet. Bring mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
5. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Optional: Sprinkle extra cheese on top and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Swap chicken for ground turkey or beef for a different flavor.
• Add a can of corn for extra sweetness and texture.
• Spice lovers can add jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Make it creamier by stirring in a splash of heavy cream before serving.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with a crisp green salad for balance.
• Pair with warm cornbread or garlic bread.
• Top with sour cream, avocado slices, or crushed tortilla chips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?

Yes! Just shred the cooked chicken and stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dish up to step 5, then refrigerate. When ready to eat, reheat and finish with cheese topping.

What pasta works best?

Elbow macaroni is classic, but penne or rotini also work well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes—just substitute the pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety and adjust cooking time as needed.

Ready to Make It?

This Chili Chicken Mac Skillet is everything you want in a comfort meal: cheesy, filling, and packed with bold chili flavors. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Don’t forget to save it to Pinterest so you can come back to it anytime you’re craving comfort food with a kick!

You Might Also Like

• Sweet Potato Cornbread – Naturally sweet and moist cornbread, the perfect side for chili.
• Pumpkin Cobbler – A warm fall dessert with spiced pumpkin filling.
• Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls – Bite-sized savory stuffing with turkey and cranberries.
• Pumpkin Coffee Cake – Soft pumpkin cake topped with cinnamon streusel.

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