Autumn Chili Chicken Mac Skillet – Cozy Fall Comfort in 30 Minutes
Fall calls for meals that are warm, hearty, and easy to prepare, and this Autumn Chili Chicken Mac Skillet checks every box. With tender chicken, chili spices, beans, pasta, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a comforting dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or meal prep, this one-skillet wonder brings the flavors of chili and mac & cheese together in the most satisfying way.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Nothing says fall quite like a warm, hearty skillet meal, and this Autumn Chili Chicken Mac Skillet delivers all the cozy flavors in just 30 minutes. It’s a one-pan dish that combines the rich spices of chili, the heartiness of pasta, and the comfort of melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a quick meal that still feels like comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
When it comes to comfort food, balance is key. This skillet isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with protein, fiber, and just the right amount of indulgence. With lean chicken, beans, and pasta, it offers a filling and nutritious meal that keeps you energized. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Sodium: 720mg
Time Breakdown
Weeknights are busy, so quick meals are a lifesaver. This recipe comes together in half an hour with minimal prep and easy cleanup since everything cooks in one skillet. Here’s how much time you’ll need at each stage to plan ahead:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is that it uses everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. From tender chicken and macaroni to pantry staples like beans and tomatoes, these simple items come together to create a rich, flavorful dish.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- Elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
- Onion and garlic
- Bell pepper
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Black beans or kidney beans
- Chicken broth
- Chili powder, cumin, paprika
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper
Condensed Grocery Checklist
If you’re short on time, a quick checklist makes shopping stress-free. These are the essentials you’ll want to grab before making your skillet dinner, ensuring you don’t miss a thing.
- Chicken
- Macaroni
- Onion & garlic
- Bell pepper
- Canned tomatoes
- Beans
- Chicken broth
- Chili spices
- Shredded cheese
How to Make – Step by Step
This skillet recipe couldn’t be easier. With a simple flow of cooking the chicken, building the chili base, and adding pasta, everything comes together beautifully in one pan. Follow these steps for a cheesy, comforting result every time:
- Cook the chicken – Dice and sauté chicken until golden brown.
- Add aromatics – Stir in onion, garlic, and bell pepper until fragrant.
- Build the chili base – Add canned tomatoes, beans, broth, and spices.
- Cook pasta in the skillet – Stir in macaroni and let it simmer until tender.
- Finish with cheese – Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and melt until gooey.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can switch up the protein, pasta, or veggies depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Here are some simple swaps to make it your own:
- Swap chicken for ground turkey or beef.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a lighter option.
- Add zucchini, corn, or spinach for extra veggies.
- Make it spicy with jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Use different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions
While this skillet meal is hearty on its own, pairing it with a few sides or toppings can make it even more satisfying. Whether you’re serving a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner, here are some delicious serving ideas:
- A crisp green salad
- Warm cornbread or garlic bread
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh cilantro or scallions on top
Storing Tips
Leftovers taste just as good, if not better, the next day. Proper storage ensures that your skillet meal keeps its flavor and texture. Follow these tips to refrigerate, freeze, and reheat with ease:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef’s Special Tips
A few small tricks can take this dish from good to incredible. From cooking the pasta in the broth for deeper flavor to adding the right toppings, these pro tips guarantee your skillet comes out perfect every time:
- Use a deep skillet or Dutch oven to hold everything easily.
- Cook pasta directly in the broth for extra flavor.
- Don’t skimp on the cheese, melty cheese is what makes this dish irresistible.
- Garnish with fresh herbs to brighten the rich flavors.
Conclusion
This Autumn Chili Chicken Mac Skillet is the ultimate fall comfort food: warm, cheesy, and ready in just 30 minutes. It’s the perfect mix of chili flavor and creamy mac that brings the whole family to the table. Try it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, and make comfort food season even more delicious. If you loved this recipe, be sure to save it, share it with friends, and check out more of my quick and cozy fall recipes.