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Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Wholesome Twist on a Classic

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A creamy, flavorful twist on the classic comfort dish featuring juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a rich cheesy sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms

Instructions

  1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 1 minute.
  5. Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach; stir until spinach wilts.
  6. Pour in milk and cream. Stir to combine.
  7. Gradually add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until sauce is smooth.
  8. Return chicken and macaroni to skillet. Toss to coat in sauce.
  9. Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
  10. Optional: Garnish with fresh basil and red pepper flakes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce. Don’t overcook the chicken or the pasta. Taste before adding extra salt as the cheeses and sun-dried tomatoes are already salty.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, chicken, Tuscan, creamy pasta, dinner

Find it online: https://www.eatbrightly.com/tuscan-chicken-mac-and-cheese/