This dreamy mac and cheese is loaded with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. It’s creamy, cheesy, and just bursting with flavor!
I love making this for dinner because it feels fancy yet is super easy. Plus, who can resist cheesy goodness? It’s a hit every time! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using elbow macaroni, but cavatappi is equally delightful! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta. The shape really holds onto the creamy sauce, making every bite satisfying!
Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breasts are great here, but you can use thighs for extra juiciness. If you have leftover roasted chicken, it’s a tasty shortcut, saving you time in the kitchen!
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms give a rich flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip them. Bella mushrooms or even canned mushrooms work fine in a pinch, though fresh is always best.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: The sun-dried tomatoes add sweetness and depth. If you can’t find them, chopped roasted red peppers or even olives make interesting substitutes with a different flavor profile.
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan create that creamy, melty goodness. If you want a stronger flavor, try using aged Gouda or cheddar. For vegan options, opt for plant-based cheeses available in stores.
How Do I Make the Creamy Sauce Smooth?
Making a smooth, creamy sauce can feel tricky, but here’s how to nail it every time:
- Start by cooking the flour in butter for about a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. This is your roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth while ensuring no lumps form. A whisk helps here!
- Keep stirring as it cooks to thicken, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes on medium heat. If it looks too thick, you can add a bit more broth or milk.
These steps ensure you have a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta and other ingredients! Don’t rush it—patience is key!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced cremini or white mushrooms
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 cups whole milk or half and half
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious mac and cheese recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prepare your ingredients and 20 minutes to cook everything and let those flavors meld together. Quick and easy for a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente—tender but with a little bite. Once done, drain it and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, pour in the olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and place it with the pasta.
3. Sauté Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté them until the mushrooms get nicely browned and tender, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts, which will take another 2 minutes. Remove veggies from the skillet and add them back to the chicken.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking it for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook while whisking frequently until the sauce thickens, around 4-5 minutes.
5. Combine Everything:
Once the sauce is thickened, stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you love a little heat), shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy. Next, add the cooked chicken and vegetables back into the sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix everything together until it’s coated in that luscious sauce.
6. Final Touches:
Allow everything to heat through for another 2-3 minutes so that the flavors meld beautifully. Serve it hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
This delightful Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese is sure to become a family favorite, packed with flavor from fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and that irresistibly creamy sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. For a quick thaw, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. After thawing, pat it dry and proceed with the recipe as directed.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
You can easily adapt this recipe by substituting the chicken with additional vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even chickpeas for added protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the sauce, and you’re all set!
Can I Prepare This Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the entire dish up to the point where it’s assembled with the pasta and sauce, then cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove over low heat until hot, adding a splash of milk if it looks too thick.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You might want to add a bit of milk or broth to help refresh the creamy texture!
