– 8 ounces elbow macaroni
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (preferably seasoned)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Fresh basil for garnish
Making Tuscan Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is straightforward. Follow these easy steps:
1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add Spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Combine Chicken and Tomatoes: Add the cooked chicken and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes to heat everything through.
5. Make Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, heat the milk and heavy cream until just warmed. Gradually stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Combine Ingredients: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Then, add the chicken, spinach, and sun-dried tomato mixture, combining everything evenly.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Let Rest: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to set before serving.
These simple steps will guide you to create an incredible Tuscan Chicken Macaroni and Cheese that is sure to impress anyone who gets a taste!