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Chicken Mac N Cheese

Savory Chicken Mac N Cheese: Your New Comfort Food Craving

Enjoy a delightful Chicken Mac N Cheese, combining sweet and spicy flavors for the ultimate comfort food experience.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitution: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier bite.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil No substitution necessary.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adjust according to your heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Alternative: Regular paprika can work if you prefer less smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for a more robust flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Chopped onion can be used, but be mindful of cooking time adjustments.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional: Increase quantity for a spicier experience.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Consider using sea salt for a unique flavor profile.
  • 0.25 cup Honey Agave syrup serves as a great vegan alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Substitute it with lemon juice for a different flavor twist.
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Tamari is a good gluten-free alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can replace it in a pinch.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Margarine can be used as a dairy-free option.
For the Mac and Cheese
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Shell pasta or cavatappi can be substituted if desired.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk 2% milk or heavy cream can change the richness level.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Monterey Jack can be swapped for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Provolone is another tasty alternative for flavor variation.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Mustard Prepared mustard can work in a similar fashion.
  • 4 tablespoons Flour Gluten-free flour can be substituted for a lighter gluten-free option.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Colander
  • whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until it shimmers.
  2. Season the chicken with ground black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook in the skillet for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
  3. In the same skillet, add honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thick.
  4. Coat the cooked chicken in the glaze and simmer for another 5 minutes on low heat.
  5. Boil salted water and cook elbow macaroni for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  6. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour for 1-2 minutes, then gradually add 2 cups of whole milk and cook until thickened for 3-5 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella until melted. Adjust consistency with milk if needed.
  8. Fold in the macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined. Serve with glazed chicken on top or alongside.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor. Adjust glaze sweetness/heat to preference.

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