There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of Chicken Mac and Cheese. This dish brings together the cheesy, creamy goodness of traditional macaroni and cheese with the protein-packed heartiness of chicken, making it a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Why We Love This Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Comfort food often evokes emotions tied to memories of home, family, and warmth. Chicken Mac and Cheese has a knack for uniting those feelings with its rich flavors and delightful textures.
Imagine digging into a bowl filled with tender pasta enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce, mixed with juicy pieces of chicken and the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. Each bite offers a balance of flavors and a comforting familiarity that resonates with many of us. Additionally, this recipe allows you to enjoy a comforting meal while also incorporating nutritious ingredients, like whole-wheat pasta and fresh spinach.
Not only is Chicken Mac and Cheese delicious, but it’s also versatile. You can tweak the ingredients to include your favorite veggies, cheeses, or spices, making it a go-to dish tailored to your taste. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that you can share with loved ones.
Ingredients About Chicken Mac and Cheese
To create this culinary delight, you will need some simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll require:
- 8 ounces whole-wheat pasta (such as fusilli, penne, or elbow pasta)
- 1 (7-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper, divided
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk (or 2%; consider substituting part for half and half for added richness)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (about 4 ounces)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 4 ounces)
- 4 cups loosely packed baby spinach (about 4 handfuls)
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional for serving)
How to Make Chicken Mac and Cheese Directions
Creating this Chicken Mac and Cheese is easier than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps to whip up a comforting dish that will surely satisfy everyone at the table.
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the whole-wheat pasta of your choice and cook according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, reserve about one cup of the pasta water. Drain the remaining water and set the pasta aside.
Next, turn your attention to the sun-dried tomatoes. Reserve two tablespoons of the flavorful oil from the jar, and drain the remaining oil. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and set them aside for later use.
In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Season the chicken with half of the kosher salt (1/4 teaspoon) and half of the black pepper (1/4 teaspoon), stirring occasionally. Cook the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through, roughly five minutes. Once ready, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Using the same skillet, add the reserved sun-dried tomato oil and the unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt before incorporating the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and the remaining salt into the skillet. Sprinkle the two tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the mixture and cook for about one minute, stirring consistently.
Gradually pour in the whole milk while stirring continuously. This will help create a smooth sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Continue cooking until everything is slightly thickened, approximately two minutes should do the trick.
Now it’s time to bring the dish together. Stir in both the mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Next, return the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken to the skillet, mixing well. Incorporate the baby spinach a handful at a time, stirring until all the spinach is wilted and integrated into the dish.
Should the sauce need a little extra moisture, adjust the thickness using the reserved pasta water, adding a few tablespoons at a time until you achieve your desired consistency. Serve hot and consider garnishing with fresh basil or parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Mac and Cheese
Serving Chicken Mac and Cheese can be as casual or as fancy as you’d like. This dish shines on its own but can also pair beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. Here’s how you can best serve this delicious meal:
Presentation: Consider serving the Chicken Mac and Cheese in a large, shallow serving bowl or individual ramekins. This not only looks appealing but also allows guests to help themselves easily.
Add Color and Taste: Garnishing with chopped fresh basil or parsley not only adds a pop of color but elevates the overall flavor of the dish.
Accompaniments: Serving it with garlic bread or a green salad can create a well-rounded meal. Consider a light vinaigrette dressing that complements the cheese flavors without overpowering them.
Cooking for a Crowd: If you’re preparing for a gathering, you can offer shredded cheese on the side for those who want an extra cheesy experience.
This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh, so if you must prepare it in advance, ensure to reheat gently without overcooking.
Expert Tips: Chicken Mac and Cheese
As you delve into making this Chicken Mac and Cheese, keep the following expert tips in mind to elevate your cooking game:
Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pasta al dente. This ensures that it holds up well in the creamy sauce and doesn’t become mushy.
Flavor Boost: Enhance the flavors by using quality sun-dried tomatoes that are marinated in oil. These add a burst of sweetness and richness to the dish.
Choosing the Right Cheese: For the best results, opt for a blend of cheeses. The combination of mozzarella and sharp cheddar provides a great flavor and texture balance.
Veggie Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, peas, or bell peppers for additional nutrition and color. Just sauté them briefly with the chicken.
Leftover Revamp: If you have leftovers, revitalize them by adding a splash of milk and warming them up in a skillet. This helps revive the creamy texture.
How to Store Chicken Mac and Cheese
If you find yourself with more Chicken Mac and Cheese than you can eat in one meal, don’t fret! This dish stores wonderfully for future enjoyment.
Cooling: Allow the Chicken Mac and Cheese to cool to room temperature before storing to avoid excess moisture buildup in your container.
Containers: Transfer the pasta into an airtight container to maintain freshness. For best results, glass containers work well.
Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the Chicken Mac and Cheese. Use freezer-safe containers, and it can last for around two months in the freezer. Just remember to label your containers with the date.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat them in the oven or on the stove. Adding a splash of milk can help restore the creamy sauce.
Variation of Chicken Mac and Cheese
Chicken Mac and Cheese is incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment and make it your own. Here are some fun variations to inspire you:
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese such as gouda, fontina, or pepper jack for unique flavors.
Protein Alternatives: If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp, turkey, or a plant-based protein for a different take.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or chives can serve as fantastic additions. Simply sprinkle them in before serving.
Seasonal Veggies: Use seasonal produce like zucchini, bell peppers, or even roasted butternut squash for added texture and flavor.
These variations allow you to reinvent Chicken Mac and Cheese, ensuring you never tire of this comforting favorite.
FAQ
What is Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious twist on traditional macaroni and cheese, featuring tender chicken pieces and sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
How do I make Chicken Mac and Cheese creamy?
To achieve that creamy texture, use a combination of whole milk and a mixture of cheeses. Adding reserves pasta water during cooking can also help to adjust the sauce for the perfect consistency.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for whole-wheat pasta, feel free to substitute it with any of your favorites, like white pasta or gluten-free options.
What can I serve with Chicken Mac and Cheese?
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or even steamed vegetables, creating a balanced meal.
Can I make Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just make sure to reheat it properly to maintain the creamy texture.
Chicken Mac and Cheese
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 8 oz. whole-wheat pasta (fusilli, penne, or elbow pasta)
- 1 jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil (7 ounces)
- 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
- 1.25 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt divided
- 1/2 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper divided
- 1 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk or 2%; can substitute part for half and half
- 1.5 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (about 4 ounces)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 4 ounces)
- 4 cups baby spinach loosely packed (about 4 handfuls)
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for serving optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole-wheat pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Reserve 2 tablespoons of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes, drain the rest, and chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large skillet, heat the reserved sun-dried tomato oil and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt and black pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and allow it to melt. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and the remaining salt. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually pour in the whole milk, stirring continuously until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Cook for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Return the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, mixing well. Add baby spinach a handful at a time, stirring until wilted.
- If the sauce is too thick, adjust with the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
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