Chicken and Vegetable Macaroni Recipe

 Chicken and Vegetable Macaroni Recipe

                                                      

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (about 2 cups) macaroni pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.), frozen or fresh
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Cook the Macaroni:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken and Vegetables:

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the diced chicken and cook until no longer pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and mixed vegetables. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Mix well and remove from heat.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

• In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the flour and whisk constantly to form a roux. Cook for a couple of minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
• Gradually add the chicken broth and milk while continuing to whisk, ensuring there are no lumps.
• Cook the mixture until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
• Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve:

• Add the cooked macaroni to the chicken and vegetable mixture in the skillet.
• Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and gently stir to combine everything evenly.
• Cook over low heat for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Garnish and Serve:

• If desired, sprinkle chopped parsley over the macaroni for a fresh garnish.
• Serve the chicken and vegetable macaroni hot and enjoy!

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese. Enjoy your homemade chicken and vegetable macaroni!