This tasty Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake brings comfort to your table! Creamy pasta is mixed with juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and lots of cheese!
You’ll love how easy this dish comes together. Just bake it up until bubbly, and you have a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for cozy nights. I can’t resist those cheesy, melty bites! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is great, but try cavatappi for a twist! Both hold cheese sauce well. Gluten-free pasta works too, just follow the cooking time on its package.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are easy to cook, but thighs are juicier. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Just shred it and mix it in!
Cheese: Mozzarella is creamy and melts beautifully. Combine it with cheddar for a sharper taste. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute half the cheese with cottage cheese blended until smooth.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add great flavor. If you don’t have them, use chopped roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes for a different taste.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts nicely, but kale can be a heartier alternative. If you’re using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it well.
How Do I Create a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
Making a creamy cheese sauce can seem tricky, but it’s simple! The key is to create a roux that forms a base for your sauce.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour, cooking for about 1 minute. It will look thick and bubbly.
- Slowly add milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir until it thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat, then stir in cheeses until you’ve got a smooth sauce. This keeps it creamy and prevents clumps when baked!
Take your time here for the best texture, and you’ll have a luscious sauce everyone will love!
Easy Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or cavatappi pasta)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, making it a great choice for a quick weeknight meal. Plus, it’s super easy to assemble!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s ready when your dish is assembled and ready to bake!
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, boil salted water. Add your elbow macaroni (or cavatappi) and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s lightly browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, until they are tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells delicious!
5. Add the Spinach and Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach to the skillet. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts slightly. This will add lovely colors and flavors!
6. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, around 4-5 minutes.
7. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until everything is smooth and creamy.
8. Combine Everything:
Now, in the skillet (or a large mixing bowl, then back into the skillet), mix the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, vegetables, and the creamy cheese sauce together until everything is well coated.
9. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/4 cup of Parmesan on top for a cheesy crust when baked!
10. Bake:
Place the skillet in the oven and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.
11. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, flavorful Tuscan Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake!
This dish combines a creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, bright spinach, and savory sun-dried tomatoes layered into baked pasta—a wonderful twist on the classic mac and cheese!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works well and adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may be slightly different from regular pasta.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if the dish seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even a can of chickpeas for protein. You may want to increase the amount of spinach and mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
What Cheese Alternatives Can I Use?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try using a blend of gouda and cheddar for a different taste. For a lighter option, consider using low-fat cheese or cottage cheese blended until smooth for a creamy texture.
