Zesty Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese Recipe for Dinner

Melted cheese meets fresh basil in this mouthwatering chicken caprese macaroni and cheese that bridges classic comfort food with Italian-inspired elegance.

The creamy pasta dish combines tender chicken and gooey mozzarella with bright, tangy tomatoes for a stunning meal.

Each forkful promises a delightful blend of rich and vibrant flavors that dance across your palate.

Summers in Italy inspired this creative twist on the traditional mac and cheese, bringing Mediterranean zest to your dinner table.

Juicy chicken pieces nestled among perfectly cooked pasta create a hearty and satisfying main course.

The combination of melted cheese, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil ensures this recipe will become a new weeknight favorite.

Grab your ingredients and get ready to savor every delicious bite of this irresistible culinary creation.

How to Prepare Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese

• Chicken Preparation

Warm a large pan with olive oil, then place chicken breasts seasoned with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Cook until golden and fully cooked, then set aside.

• Garlic Infusion

In the same pan, quickly sauté minced garlic, creating a fragrant base for the dish. Pour in chicken broth to enhance the flavor profile.

• Creamy Sauce Creation

Mix evaporated milk with cornstarch to create a smooth thickening agent. Pour into the pan and blend thoroughly.

• Pasta Cooking

Add macaroni noodles to the liquid mixture, allowing them to simmer and become tender and delicious.

• Cheese and Tomato Magic

Incorporate a blend of cheeses until they melt seamlessly. Fold in fresh diced tomatoes and vibrant basil leaves for a burst of freshness.

• Chicken Reunion

Slice the previously cooked chicken and gently return it to the pan, ensuring every ingredient melds together beautifully.

• Final Touch

Plate the creamy pasta, optionally drizzling with a rich balsamic glaze for an extra layer of sophisticated flavor.

Tips & Variations for Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese

• Cooking Tips & Variations
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like fontina, provolone, or gorgonzola to create unique flavor profiles that elevate the classic mac and cheese.
• Replace chicken with grilled shrimp, crispy pancetta, or plant-based protein for a delightful twist on the original recipe while maintaining the caprese essence.
• Toast breadcrumbs with herbs and sprinkle on top for a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta, adding an extra layer of deliciousness and visual appeal.
• Mix in additional fresh vegetables like roasted zucchini, spinach, or artichoke hearts to increase nutritional value and introduce more vibrant flavors to the dish.
• Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce for those who enjoy a subtle kick, allowing each person to customize their heat preference without overwhelming the delicate caprese profile.

Serving Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese

• Garnish with Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of herbal brightness and added color.
• Pair with Crisp Side Salad: Serve alongside a light mixed green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the creamy pasta.
• Add Balsamic Drizzle: Finish the dish with a delicate drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy, sweet accent that complements the chicken and cheese.
• Crusty Bread Companion: Serve with toasted garlic bread or a rustic baguette slice to soak up the delicious sauce and add textural contrast.

Storage and Meal Prep for Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese

• Maximize Meal Prep: Quickly portion leftovers into airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Refrigerate Wisely: Store chicken caprese mac and cheese in sealed containers for up to 3-4 days, keeping its creamy texture and flavor intact.
• Freeze for Future Meals: Carefully transfer to freezer-safe containers, lasting up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to maintain sauce consistency.
• Reheat with Care: Warm slowly in a microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creamy texture and prevent drying out. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly and keep the dish tasting fresh.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 590 kcal

Servings: 7

Ingredients for Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese

• Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender base that absorbs rich flavors, choose fresh, boneless cuts with minimal fat for best texture.
• Chicken Broth: Provides deep, savory liquid foundation, opt for low-sodium varieties to control salt levels.

• Evaporated Milk, Cornstarch: Creates silky, smooth sauce base, cornstarch helps thicken without clumping.
• Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Melts beautifully for creamy texture, select freshly grated for superior flavor and meltability.

• Olive Oil: Adds subtle richness and helps prevent sticking, use extra virgin for best taste.
• Garlic: Introduces aromatic depth, choose fresh cloves for most intense flavor.
• Salt, Black Pepper, Dried Basil: Essential seasoning blend that elevates overall taste profile.
• Fresh Basil: Brings bright, herbaceous note, select vibrant green leaves with no wilting.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds fresh, juicy element, pick ripe, firm tomatoes for best texture.
• Balsamic Glaze: Optional elegant finishing touch, drizzle sparingly for tangy sweetness.

Tools Needed for Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese

• Large Pan: Essential for cooking chicken and creating the creamy sauce, with enough space to handle all ingredients.
• Whisk: Perfect for smoothly blending cornstarch into evaporated milk without lumps.
• Cutting Board: Needed for slicing chicken and chopping fresh basil and tomatoes.
• Sharp Knife: Used for precisely cutting chicken, tomatoes, and herbs.
• Measuring Cups/Spoons: Helps accurately measure chicken broth, cornstarch, and seasonings.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring and combining ingredients without scratching the pan.

Sumptuous Chicken Caprese Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

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4.8 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 7 1x

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Description

Rich and creamy chicken caprese macaroni and cheese blends Italian-inspired flavors with classic comfort. Mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil elevate this hearty dish for satisfying meals you’ll crave.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 chicken breasts (thin cut or halved)
• 3 cups dried elbow macaroni
• 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese (113 g)
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese (226 g)
• 2 cups chicken broth (473 ml)
• 1 cup evaporated milk (237 ml)
• 2 tbsps cornstarch
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• 1/8 tsp pepper
• ¼ tsp dried basil
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Balsamic glaze (optional topping)

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Instructions

1. Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with kosher salt, black pepper, and dried basil. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
2. Prepare Base: Remove chicken and lower skillet heat. Sauté garlic briefly, then add chicken broth, scraping pan to release caramelized bits. Whisk cornstarch into evaporated milk and pour into skillet, stirring to create a smooth sauce.
3. Cook Pasta: Add macaroni to the sauce, simmering for 9-11 minutes until pasta reaches al dente texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Create Cheese Sauce: Incorporate mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, stirring until completely melted and creating a creamy consistency.
5. Combine and Finish: Fold in diced tomatoes and fresh basil. Slice chicken into thin diagonal strips and gently mix into the macaroni. Optional: Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for an enhanced flavor profile.

Notes

• Chicken Searing Technique: Develop a golden-brown crust by using high heat and avoiding overcrowding the skillet for maximum flavor development.
• Cheese Melting Tip: Add cheese off direct heat and stir slowly to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
• Pasta Cooking Precision: Monitor macaroni closely during simmering to prevent overcooking, aiming for al dente consistency with a slight bite.
• Flavor Layering Strategy: Build depth by using seasoned chicken drippings and caramelized pan bits to enhance the overall sauce complexity.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 7
• Calories: 590
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 63g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 100mg