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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- Cook Pasta: Add macaroni to the sauce, simmering for 9-11 minutes until pasta reaches al dente texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Create Cheese Sauce: Incorporate mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, stirring until completely melted and creating a creamy consistency.
- 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