Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, plus more for boiling pasta; 1 lb medium shell pasta, penne or bowtie can also be used; 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for drizzling; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup yellow onion, finely diced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ cup dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, julienne-style, drained; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 cups whole milk, or half and half; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 bunch tuscan kale, stemmed and sliced; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup white cheddar cheese, grated; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

This creamy Tuscan chicken mac and cheese combines tender pasta, rich cheeses, and savory chicken with a hint of sun-dried tomatoes and kale, creating a comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common, you may need to look out for sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil and Tuscan kale. Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated tomato flavor and Tuscan kale provides a hearty, slightly bitter green that balances the richness of the cheese sauce.

Ingredients For Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac And Cheese

Kosher salt: A coarse, flaky salt that enhances the flavor of the dish.

Medium shell pasta: A type of pasta that holds the creamy sauce well; penne or bowtie can also be used.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and drizzling on the pasta to prevent sticking.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides protein and a mild flavor.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the dish.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps to create the sauce base.

Yellow onion: Gives a sweet and savory flavor to the sauce.

Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and enhances the savory flavors.

Dry white wine: Deglazes the pan, adding acidity and complexity to the sauce.

Sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil: Concentrated tomato flavor that complements the creamy sauce.

All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce, giving it a creamy consistency.

Whole milk: Forms the base of the creamy sauce; half and half can also be used.

Dried oregano: Adds an earthy, aromatic flavor.

Tuscan kale: A hearty green that adds texture and a slightly bitter note.

Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.

White cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and is used both in the sauce and for serving.

Fresh parsley: Provides a fresh, herbaceous garnish.

One reader, Edouard Duckworth says:

Creamy Tuscan chicken mac and cheese is a delightful dish! The rich, cheesy sauce combined with tender chicken and sun-dried tomatoes creates an explosion of flavors. The kale adds a nice touch of freshness. Perfect comfort food for any night!

Edouard Duckworth

Techniques Required for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese

How to cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. How to season chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. How to cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat, add the chicken, and cook until golden brown on both sides and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let cool slightly, then chop into ½-inch cubes. How to sauté vegetables: Melt butter in a pot over medium heat, add onion and garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant. How to deglaze a pan: Pour in white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, then simmer until the liquid has fully evaporated. How to make a roux: Sprinkle flour over sautéed vegetables and stir until fully coated. Cook until the flour is golden brown and smells nutty. How to make a cheese sauce: Add milk, oregano, salt, pepper, and kale to the roux. Cook until the kale has wilted and the sauce has thickened slightly. Add mozzarella, white cheddar, and parmesan cheeses, and stir until fully melted and incorporated. How to combine ingredients: Add cooked pasta and chicken to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.

How To Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac And Cheese

Level-up your usual chicken mac and cheese recipe by combining sun dried tomatoes and garlic to your cheese sauce. This dish just got meatier and cheesier.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½tspkosher saltplus more for boiling pasta
1lbshell pastamedium, penne or bowtie can also be used
1tbspolive oilplus more for drizzling
2chicken breastsboneless, skinless
¾tspblack pepperfreshly ground
3tbspunsalted butter
1cupyellow onionfinely diced
4garlic clovesminced
¼cupdry white wine(Pinot Grigio)
1cupsun-dried tomatoes in olive oiljulienne-style, drained
2tbspall-purpose flour
3cupswhole milkor half and half
2tspdried oregano
1bunchtuscan kalestemmed and sliced
2cupsmozzarella cheeseshredded
1cupwhite cheddar cheesegrated
½cupparmesan cheesegrated, plus more for serving
1tbspfresh parsleychopped

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, then transfer to a large bowl, toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
When the oil is shimmering, add the chicken and cook, flipping halfway, until golden brown on both sides and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F, about 12 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let cool slightly, then chop into ½-inch cubes.
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened and fragrant, about 4 minutes. Carefully pour in the white wine. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, then simmer until the liquid has fully evaporated, 2 to 3 minutes.
Add the sun-dried tomatoes and stir to incorporate.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir until the vegetables are fully coated. Cook for 2 minutes, until the flour is golden brown and smells nutty.
Add the milk, oregano, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, remaining ¼ teaspoon pepper, and the kale. Cook, stirring often, until the kale has wilted and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5 minutes.
Add the mozzarella, white cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses and stir until fully melted and incorporated, about 2 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the pan and stir until well coated in the sauce. Stir in the chicken.
Remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle the mac and cheese with the parsley and serve immediately with more Parmesan cheese for topping.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 758.72kcal
Fat: 38.35g
Saturated Fat: 20.89g
Trans Fat: 0.41g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.56g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.67g
Carbohydrates: 59.24g
Fiber: 4.16g
Sugar: 10.97g
Protein: 43.33g
Cholesterol: 129.41mg
Sodium: 821.24mg
Calcium: 775.62mg
Potassium: 820.64mg
Iron: 2.64mg
Vitamin A: 410.46µg
Vitamin C: 35.38mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese

When cooking the chicken, ensure the pan is hot enough so that the olive oil shimmers before adding the chicken breasts. This will help achieve a golden brown sear, locking in the juices and enhancing the flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Pasta Dish

Pre-cook the chicken: Cook the chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the fridge. This will save you about 12 minutes during the recipe preparation.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Buy pre-shredded mozzarella, white cheddar, and parmesan cheese to cut down on prep time.

Opt for jarred garlic: Use pre-minced garlic from a jar to save the time it takes to peel and mince fresh cloves.

Pre-washed kale: Purchase pre-washed and pre-cut kale to skip the washing and chopping steps.

Cook pasta in advance: Boil the pasta ahead of time, toss it with a bit of olive oil, and store it in the fridge until ready to use.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe

kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of seasoning and flavor.
medium shell pasta - Substitute with elbow macaroni: Elbow macaroni has a similar texture and will hold the sauce well.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and provide a richer flavor.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used in similar quantities.
unsalted butter - Substitute with salted butter: Salted butter can be used, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.
yellow onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and slightly sweeter flavor.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove of garlic.
dry white wine - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth provides a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol.
sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil - Substitute with fresh cherry tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes can add a burst of freshness and acidity.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can thicken the sauce similarly; use half the amount.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a non-dairy alternative that can provide a similar creaminess.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil offers a different but complementary herb flavor.
tuscan kale - Substitute with spinach: Spinach has a similar texture and cooks down in a similar manner.
shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone has a similar melting quality and mild flavor.
white cheddar cheese - Substitute with gruyere cheese: Gruyere provides a nutty flavor and melts well.
grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar texture and a slightly saltier taste.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro offers a different but fresh and vibrant flavor.

Presenting Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the creamy Tuscan chicken mac and cheese in elegant, shallow bowls, ensuring each portion is modest yet satisfying. This allows the rich flavors to shine without overwhelming the palate.
Use decoration: Garnish each serving with a light sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese and a few leaves of finely chopped fresh parsley. This adds a touch of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Highlight key ingredients: Place a few pieces of the sun-dried tomatoes and Tuscan kale on top of the mac and cheese. This not only adds visual appeal but also showcases the premium ingredients used in the recipe.
Create height: Stack the chicken cubes on top of the pasta in a neat, pyramid-like fashion. This adds dimension to the dish and makes it look more sophisticated.
Use high-quality serving ware: Serve the dish in pristine white porcelain bowls or plates. The simplicity of the serving ware will contrast beautifully with the vibrant colors of the mac and cheese, making the dish stand out.
Add a touch of luxury: Drizzle a small amount of truffle oil over the top of the dish just before serving. This adds an extra layer of aroma and richness, elevating the overall dining experience.
Incorporate texture: Sprinkle a few toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts over the top for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy texture of the mac and cheese.
Serve with a side: Pair the dish with a small side salad of mixed greens lightly dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing element to balance the richness of the main course.

Essential Tools for Making Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Large pot: Used for boiling the pasta and cooking the sauce.
Large bowl: For holding the cooked pasta after draining.
Cutting board: Essential for chopping the chicken breasts and other ingredients.
Chef's knife: Used for finely dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, and chopping the chicken.
Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring the salt, pepper, and other seasonings.
Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring the milk, wine, and cheeses.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the sauce and pasta.
Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken breasts while cooking.
Grater: Needed for grating the white cheddar and parmesan cheeses.
Colander: For draining the cooked pasta.
Small bowl: To hold the sun-dried tomatoes after draining.
Whisk: Helps in incorporating the flour into the vegetables and ensuring a smooth sauce.
Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the chicken breasts.
Serving spoon: For serving the finished mac and cheese.

Storing and Freezing Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese

To store leftover creamy tuscan chicken mac and cheese, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Seal the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating the refrigerated mac and cheese, you may find that the sauce has thickened and the pasta has absorbed some of the liquid. To restore its creamy consistency, add a splash of milk or cream and stir well while reheating over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
If you want to freeze the mac and cheese for later consumption, it's best to portion it into individual serving sizes before freezing. This allows for easier thawing and reheating.
To freeze, let the mac and cheese cool completely before spooning it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents, then place them in the freezer. Creamy tuscan chicken mac and cheese can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen mac and cheese, first thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, transfer the mac and cheese to a microwave-safe dish or a saucepan on the stovetop. Add a small amount of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce and stir well while reheating over low heat until warmed through and creamy.
If you find that the reheated mac and cheese lacks some of its original flavor, you can add a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese, a dash of black pepper, or a pinch of dried oregano to enhance the taste.

How To Reheat Leftover Mac and Cheese

Reheat in the oven: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). transfer the leftover mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish, and add a splash of milk or cream to help maintain the creamy texture. cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
Reheat on the stovetop: place the leftover creamy tuscan chicken mac and cheese in a saucepan over medium-low heat. add a splash of milk or cream and stir gently until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is smooth and creamy. be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the sauce to separate or become grainy.
Reheat in the microwave: transfer individual portions of the leftover mac and cheese to microwave-safe bowls. add a splash of milk or cream to each bowl and stir well. microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is smooth and creamy. be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the sauce to separate or become grainy.
Reheat in an air fryer: preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). transfer the leftover creamy tuscan chicken mac and cheese to an air fryer-safe dish, and add a splash of milk or cream to help maintain the creamy texture. air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the top is slightly crispy.
Reheat and repurpose: transform your leftover mac and cheese into a new dish by spreading it into a greased baking dish, topping it with additional shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, or crushed crackers, and baking at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pasta is heated through. this method works well for creating a delicious mac and cheese casserole or baked pasta dish.

Interesting Fact About Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese

A random fact about this recipe is that Tuscan kale, also known as Lacinato kale or dinosaur kale, is a nutrient-dense leafy green that adds a rich, earthy flavor and vibrant color to the creamy mac and cheese.

Is Making This Pasta Dish at Home Cost-Effective?

When analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this creamy tuscan chicken mac and cheese, several factors come into play. The use of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, whole milk, and a variety of cheeses like mozzarella, white cheddar, and parmesan can add up. However, the inclusion of kale and sun-dried tomatoes provides a nutritious boost. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $25-$30 USD. Given the rich flavors and hearty ingredients, the overall verdict is a solid 8 out of 10 for both taste and value.

Is This Creamy Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy Tuscan chicken mac and cheese recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The recipe uses a significant amount of cheese (mozzarella, white cheddar, and parmesan), which is high in saturated fat and sodium.
Whole milk or half-and-half is used as the base for the sauce, adding more saturated fat and calories to the dish.
The recipe calls for butter and olive oil, which are high in fat and calories.
White pasta is used, which is a refined carbohydrate lacking in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.

However, the recipe does include some healthier elements, such as:

Chicken breast, which is a lean protein source.
Kale, a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals.
Sun-dried tomatoes, which provide some fiber and antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Swap the white pasta for a whole grain or legume-based alternative to increase fiber and nutrient content.
Reduce the amount of cheese used, or opt for lower-fat varieties to decrease the saturated fat and calorie content.
Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk or half-and-half to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
Increase the amount of kale or add other vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient profile and fiber content.
Use a smaller amount of olive oil and butter, or replace some of the butter with a healthier alternative like Greek yogurt to maintain creaminess while reducing fat.
Serve the mac and cheese with a side salad or additional steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add more nutrients.

Editor's Opinion on This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe

This creamy Tuscan chicken mac and cheese is a delightful fusion of comfort food and sophisticated flavors. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Tuscan kale adds depth and texture, while the trio of cheeses creates a luscious, velvety sauce. The use of white wine enhances the overall taste, making it more refined. It's a well-balanced dish that is both hearty and elegant, perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests. The recipe is straightforward, yet the result is restaurant-quality, making it a fantastic addition to any home cook's repertoire.

Enhance Your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Elevate your creamy tuscan chicken mac and cheese with a side of roasted brussels sprouts drizzled in a tangy balsamic glaze. The crispy, caramelized edges of the sprouts provide a delightful contrast to the creamy, cheesy pasta, while the balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory chicken and cheese perfectly.

Garlic Bread with Herb Butter: Pair your creamy tuscan chicken mac and cheese with warm, crusty garlic bread slathered in rich herb butter. The aromatic garlic and fresh herbs will enhance the flavors of the mac and cheese, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Caprese Salad: Add a refreshing touch to your creamy tuscan chicken mac and cheese with a vibrant caprese salad. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a hint of balsamic vinegar create a light and zesty side that balances the richness of the main dish.

Lemon Garlic Asparagus: Brighten up your meal with lemon garlic asparagus. The tender asparagus spears, lightly sautéed with garlic and finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, offer a crisp and tangy counterpoint to the creamy, cheesy goodness of the mac and cheese.

Mixed Berry Parfait: For a sweet finish, serve a mixed berry parfait alongside your creamy tuscan chicken mac and cheese. Layers of fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola create a delightful dessert that is both light and satisfying, providing a refreshing end to a rich and hearty meal.

Similar Recipes to Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Indulge in a creamy alfredo sauce that clings to every strand of fettuccine, with tender pieces of grilled chicken and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner night.

Spinach and Artichoke Mac and Cheese: Combine the classic flavors of spinach dip with mac and cheese for a decadent dish. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with spinach and artichokes, this will be a hit at any gathering.

Pesto Chicken Pasta: Brighten up your pasta night with a vibrant basil pesto sauce, tender chicken breast, and a mix of cherry tomatoes and parmesan. A fresh and flavorful meal that's quick to prepare.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: Spice things up with this buffalo chicken twist on mac and cheese. Creamy, cheesy pasta meets spicy buffalo sauce and tender chicken, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust.

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake: A comforting casserole that combines chicken, broccoli, and pasta in a rich alfredo sauce. Baked to perfection with a golden cheese topping, it's a family favorite.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. Each mushroom cap is filled with a delectable mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to golden perfection. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, making it a perfect starter for any meal. A sprinkle of parmesan on top adds a touch of elegance and a burst of umami flavor. Serve these warm and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Kick off your meal with a classic bruschetta. This appetizer features toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of sea salt elevate the flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. The combination of crunchy bread and juicy, flavorful toppings is sure to whet your guests' appetites and set the stage for a memorable dining experience.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in a classic Italian treat that layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a rich mascarpone cheese mixture. The delicate balance of coffee and cocoa powder creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to Italy. Perfect for ending a hearty meal, this dessert is both elegant and comforting.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Brighten up your meal with a zesty and refreshing Lemon Meringue Pie. The tart lemon curd is perfectly complemented by a fluffy meringue topping, creating a delightful contrast of textures. This dessert is a wonderful way to cleanse the palate and leave your guests with a sweet and tangy finish.

Why trust this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of Tuscan cuisine with the comforting appeal of mac and cheese. The use of sun-dried tomatoes, kale, and a blend of mozzarella, white cheddar, and parmesan cheeses ensures a depth of flavor that is both satisfying and sophisticated. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. Trust this recipe for a delightful meal that brings a taste of Italy to your table.

Share your thoughts on the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you like. Penne, bowtie, or even elbow macaroni would work great in this recipe.

What can I substitute for the dry white wine?

If you don't have white wine or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with chicken broth. It will still add a nice depth of flavor to the dish.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to mix and match cheeses based on what you have on hand. Gouda, fontina, or even a bit of blue cheese can add a unique twist to the dish.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can easily make this vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You could also add some chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just prepare the dish as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen up the sauce if needed.