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–+ servings

Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese

Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese combines creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, golden chicken, and classic Italian-inspired flavors like sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach. It’s a comforting yet gourmet twist on classic mac and cheese, perfect for cozy weeknights or special gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 620 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
  • 3 cups baby spinach
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni or short pasta
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta in generously salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sear for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside to rest.
  • In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  • In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  • Slowly pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  • Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy.
  • Dice or slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet with the tomato and spinach mixture.
  • Add the cooked pasta and pour in the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well combined and coated.
  • Optional: For a golden top, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and broil for 2 to 3 minutes until bubbly and browned.

Nutrition

Calories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 38gFat: 35gSodium: 780mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6g
Keyword mac and cheese, Tuscan chicken, Italian comfort food, skillet meal, weeknight dinner
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