Chicken and elbow macaroni is a timeless comfort food, loved by kids and adults alike. This classic dish is easy to make, customizable to your taste, and always a crowd-pleaser. This guide will walk you through creating a delicious, creamy chicken and elbow macaroni recipe, addressing common questions and offering variations to suit your preferences.
What Makes This Chicken and Elbow Macaroni Recipe Special?
This recipe emphasizes simplicity and flavor. We'll use pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a dish that's both comforting and satisfying. The key to a truly great chicken and elbow macaroni is a creamy, flavorful sauce that coats each noodle perfectly. We'll achieve this through a combination of butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth, resulting in a rich and velvety texture.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until sauce has thickened.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Combine Everything: Add cooked chicken and macaroni to the sauce. Stir to combine. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can easily make this recipe healthier by using whole wheat elbow macaroni, reducing the amount of cheese, and adding more vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli. Using low-fat milk will also reduce the overall fat content.
Can I use different types of chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time. Simply shred or chop the chicken and add it to the sauce in step 5.
What other cheeses can I use?
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty sharpness.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
How can I make this spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier kick.
What are some side dish suggestions?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Elbow Macaroni
- Don't overcook the pasta: Overcooked pasta will become mushy. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasonings: Adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your liking.
- Let the sauce simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps it thicken and develop flavor.
This creamy chicken and elbow macaroni recipe is a guaranteed winner. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. Enjoy!
