Loaded Chicken Mac and Cheese
Try this Loaded Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Loaded Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 onion, chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups skim milk
- 3 tbsp all purpose flour
- 1 lb penne pasta (i used elbow pasta and penne pasta mixed)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut in small pieces
- 1/2 red bell pepper chopped in small pieces
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper chopped in small pieces
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese
- 8 oz mex blend cheese
- Carbohydrate 32.6781129086397 g
- Cholesterol 62.940542176 mg
- Fat 10.1266129972301 g
- Fiber 2.51325737293284 g
- Protein 31.3768017509639 g
- Saturated Fat 5.09625710387869 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (316g)
- Sodium 854.053639782965 mg
- Sugar 30.1648555357069 g
- Trans Fat 0.797797610567816 g
- Calories 352 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 375 F degrees.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- In the meantime heat the olive oil in a large skillet. Add onions, garlic and chicken breast and mix.
- Cook for 3 minutes, then add bell pepper and peas. Mix and cook until chicken is cooked through and starting to slightly brown.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- In a sauce pan, bring milk to a boil. Add flour and whisk until it begins to thicken.
- Add 2 thirds of the mozzarella cheese and half of the mex blend cheese to the milk and continue whisking until mixture thickens and is bubbling.
- Pour cheese mixture over the chicken and veggies, then add the pasta. Toss everything together.
- Pour the pasta mixture in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese and mex blend cheese, then sprinkle the breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is brown.
Loaded Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Comfort Food Dream
Oh, the glorious, cheesy, carb-loaded goodness of Loaded Chicken Mac and Cheese! There's just something about a creamy, decadent pasta dish that hits the spot on a chilly evening, or frankly, any evening. This recipe isn't just another mac and cheese; it's a symphony of flavors and textures, a culinary masterpiece designed to please even the most discerning palate. As a busy working mom, I need meals that are satisfying, quick, and easy to clean up. This recipe ticks all the boxes. The prep is minimal, the cooking time is manageable, and the cleanup? A breeze! The best part? Leftovers are just as delicious the next day!
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The perfectly cooked penne pasta, tossed in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, is elevated by the addition of juicy chicken and vibrant bell peppers. The panko breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the soft, cheesy interior. I often find myself adapting this recipe based on what's on hand in my fridge. Sometimes I add spinach, other times I swap the bell peppers for broccoli. The great thing is, it all works! The versatility of this recipe is what makes it a staple in my weekly meal rotation.
I love to serve this mac and cheese with a side salad – a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the main course perfectly. It's a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and delicious, ideal for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. For a slightly healthier twist, I sometimes use reduced-fat cheese and whole-wheat pasta. The taste difference is minimal, but it makes me feel a little better about indulging in this cheesy delight.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Loaded Chicken Mac and Cheese holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of cozy nights in, family gatherings, and the simple joy of sharing a heartwarming meal with loved ones. The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a place of comfort and contentment. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience.
This recipe isn't just about the food; it's about the memories created while preparing and sharing it. Imagine the laughter around the table as everyone digs into a generous helping, the warmth of the family gathered together, enjoying each other’s company over a steaming bowl of deliciousness. That's the magic of this dish – it’s a conduit for connection and shared experiences. The taste is amazing, of course, but it's the memories it helps to create that truly make it special.
So, if you’re looking for a comfort food classic that’s both easy to make and utterly irresistible, look no further. Give this Loaded Chicken Mac and Cheese a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed. It's a recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. It's a dish that's guaranteed to become a family favorite, a go-to recipe you'll return to time and time again. Trust me on this one; it’s a keeper!
One final note: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Add your favorite vegetables, spice things up with some chili flakes, or use different types of cheese to create your own unique version of this classic comfort food. The possibilities are endless! This is your chance to make it your own; let your culinary creativity shine through. Enjoy!
