This Easy Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese is a cozy comfort dish that mixes creamy cheese sauce with tender chicken and tasty tomatoes. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using elbow macaroni or cavatappi for their fun shapes that catch sauce. If you want a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta—just make sure to adjust cooking time according to package instructions!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to, but you can swap in rotisserie chicken for a time-saver or even use cooked sausage or tofu for a vegetarian option!
Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add a delicious earthy flavor. If you’re not a mushroom fan, replace them with zucchini or bell peppers, or just leave them out altogether!
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a great melting texture, while Parmesan adds depth. Feel free to use other cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère if you like! Just keep in mind the flavor changes slightly.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely tang. If you can’t find them, you could use fresh chopped tomatoes, but reduce the cooking time to prevent excess moisture.
How Do I Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
The creamy cheese sauce is key to a delicious mac and cheese! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by adding milk and heavy cream slowly after cooking the mushrooms. This helps prevent lumps and makes the sauce smooth.
- Stir in the cheeses gradually. I recommend turning down the heat to avoid overheating, which can cause cheese to become grainy.
- Keep stirring until everything is melted and well mixed. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more milk!
This method ensures a rich, creamy sauce that beautifully coats the pasta and other ingredients. Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
Easy Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
Vegetables:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking, and then another 20 minutes for the actual cooking process.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 7-9 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same pan, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them for about 5 minutes, until they are softened and browned. Next, stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat and pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and fresh spinach to the cheese sauce. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and all the ingredients are well coated in that deliciously creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the mac and cheese while it’s hot! Top each serving with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a lovely finishing touch.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Easy Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese with family and friends! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni or cavatappi are great options, you can swap in any pasta shape you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check the package instructions for best results!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken or substitute it with chickpeas, tofu, or your favorite plant-based protein. You might also want to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a delicious veggie boost!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help restore the creaminess!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Simply store them separately in the fridge, then combine and heat before serving. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights!
