This creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese is a cozy dish that combines tender chicken, rich cheese, and tasty Italian flavors. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
My favorite part? The burst of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach adds a delicious twist! I often serve it with garlic bread for extra yum! Don’t worry, the cheesy goodness makes everything alright! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: A classic choice for mac and cheese, elbow macaroni holds the cheese sauce well. If you’re looking for something different, cavatappi or penne are good alternatives that also catch sauce nicely.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great but feel free to swap with rotisserie chicken or turkey for a quicker option. Tofu is a fantastic plant-based alternative for a vegetarian twist!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice color and nutrition boost. If unavailable, kale or even frozen spinach works. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water if using frozen.
Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms bring umami flavor to the dish. You can easily switch them out for zucchini or bell peppers if you’re not a mushroom fan.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They’re packed with flavor! If you need a substitute, you could use diced fresh tomatoes, just be aware that the flavor will be lighter.
Cheese: Mozzarella provides creaminess, but you could combine it with cheddar for more flavor. If lactose is a concern, try dairy-free cheese options or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
How Do I Cook Chicken to Perfection?
Cooking the chicken properly is key to this dish. You want it juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start with cubed chicken pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Always season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning right before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken, cooking for about 6-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink inside.
- Let the chicken rest off the heat for a few minutes before adding back to the dish. This helps keep it moist.
How to Make Tuscan Chicken Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Chicken:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
Veggies and Cream:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
Cheese:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tuscan Chicken Mac And Cheese will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken, and 20 minutes combining all the tasty ingredients into a creamy dish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. You want it to be al dente, so be sure not to overcook it. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken pieces and sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms become tender. This will add loads of flavor to your dish!
4. Mix in the Tomatoes and Spinach:
Now, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook for a few minutes until the spinach is wilted and everything is well combined.
5. Add the Cream and Cheese:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until everything is melted and creamy—this is where the magic happens!
6. Combine Everything:
Add the drained macaroni and the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Mix everything together until it’s evenly combined. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, and taste it to see if it needs a bit more salt or pepper.
7. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the top with the remaining Parmesan cheese. For a pop of color, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy and flavorful Tuscan Chicken Mac And Cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions of the pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch (1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon cornstarch). Simply whisk them together and bring to a simmer to thicken. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add More Veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or kale. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms to ensure they’re cooked through and tender!
