Grilled Chicken with Mac and Cheese: A Comfort Food Combo

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
If desired, drizzle the chicken with lemon juice just before removing it from the grill for an extra burst of flavor.
Set the chicken aside to rest while you prepare the mac and cheese.
Make the Mac and Cheese:

Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly golden and bubbly.
Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. If desired, sprinkle the top with bread crumbs for a crunchy topping and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Serve:

Slice the grilled chicken into strips or serve whole alongside a generous portion of mac and cheese.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a touch of color and flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips