Description
Comfort meets nutrition in this scrumptious Macaroni with Chicken recipe, blending lean protein and whole grains into a delightful meal. Quick and satisfying, this dish promises a wholesome experience you can enjoy without guilt.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups (360 ml) macaroni
- 1.5 cups (360 ml) cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 0.5 cups (120 ml) mozzarella, shredded
Aromatics and Herbs:
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh dill, chopped
Seasoning and Oil:
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) tomato paste
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, creating a sizzling base for the aromatic ingredients.
- Introduce chopped tomatoes, shredded chicken, and minced garlic to the pan, allowing them to meld and develop rich flavors for 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in water and tomato paste, seasoning with a delicate sprinkle of salt to enhance the overall taste profile.
- Gently incorporate macaroni and dill into the sauce, ensuring the pasta is lightly coated but not completely submerged.
- Reduce heat and simmer, covering the skillet, until the macaroni reaches perfect tenderness according to package guidelines (approximately 8-10 minutes).
- Sprinkle mozzarella over the dish, letting it gracefully melt and transform the sauce into a creamy, luxurious coating.
- Remove from heat and let the residual warmth complete the cheese melting process.
- Optional: Garnish with additional fresh dill for a vibrant, herbaceous finish.
- Serve immediately while the dish maintains its optimal temperature and creamy consistency.
Notes
- Choose whole wheat or gluten-free macaroni to boost nutritional value and accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Remove chicken skin to reduce fat content and create a leaner protein option for health-conscious eaters.
- Keep extra fresh herbs like parsley or basil on hand to enhance flavor complexity and provide additional garnishing options.
- Use low-fat mozzarella or nutritional yeast for a lighter cheese alternative that maintains creamy texture while reducing calories.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 435 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg