This creamy Tuscan chicken mac and cheese is a warm hug in a bowl. Made with tender chicken, cheesy pasta, and a hint of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, it’s hearty and delicious!
You can’t go wrong with mac and cheese, especially when it has chicken and veggies in it. It’s my go-to for cozy nights! I just serve it with some garlic bread for a perfect dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but I love using cavatappi for its fun shape. You could also try penne or fusilli if you have those on hand!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works well. If you’re looking for a shortcut, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute—just shred it and toss it in!
Mushrooms: Button mushrooms are used here, but feel free to swap them with cremini mushrooms for a deeper flavor. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can leave them out, too!
Sun-dried tomatoes: These add a unique taste. If fresh tomatoes are available, consider using them instead. Just sauté them a little longer to soften them up!
Cheese: Mozzarella is perfect for that gooey texture, while Parmesan adds a nice sharpness. If you’re out of one, you can use only one type or try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda.
How Do I Make the Creamy Sauce without Lumps?
Creating a smooth, creamy sauce can feel tricky, but it’s simple! Use these steps for a lump-free sauce:
- After cooking the garlic and mushrooms, sprinkle the flour on top while stirring constantly. This helps to mix it in smoothly.
- When you start adding milk, do it gradually—if you add it all at once, you’ll likely get lumps. Keep whisking as you pour.
- Stir continuously while the sauce thickens to keep it smooth. Cooking for 3-5 minutes allows it to become creamy without sticking to the bottom.
Following these tips will ensure your sauce turns out perfectly creamy every time!
Easy Creamy Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
For the Chicken and Veggies:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the chicken, and then about 20 minutes bringing everything together into that creamy sauce. It’s quick, but the flavor is definitely a crowd-pleaser!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
First, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later. You want to make sure it’s cooked but still has a little bite to it!
2. Searing the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet or Dutch oven and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sautéing the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté them together until the mushrooms are soft, which should take about 3-4 minutes. You’ll love the aroma!
4. Making the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the garlic and mushrooms, stirring constantly to create a roux. This helps thicken your sauce. Cook it for about 1 minute, making sure it’s well combined.
5. Creating the Creamy Sauce:
Now, slowly whisk in the milk. Make sure to pour it in gradually to avoid lumps. Keep stirring as the sauce thickens, which should take around 3-5 minutes. You want it smooth and creamy!
6. Adding the Cheese:
Next, stir in the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a luscious mixture.
7. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts. It adds such a nice color!
8. Tossing the Pasta:
Finally, add the cooked pasta into the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy goodness. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serving the Dish:
Garnish your creamy Tuscan chicken mac and cheese with the remaining Parmesan cheese and some fresh chopped parsley if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting dish!
Now you’re all set to impress family and friends with this delicious meal. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni or cavatappi are great choices, feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand, like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a chicken substitute, cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully. Alternatively, you can use cooked sausage, turkey, or even plant-based protein like chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the dish while sautéing the garlic and mushrooms. You can also sprinkle some hot sauce on top when serving for an extra kick!
