Quick & Cheesy: Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Chicken caprese macaroni and cheese brings a delightful Mediterranean twist to the classic comfort food we all adore.

This innovative dish combines creamy pasta with vibrant, fresh ingredients that craft an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

Tangy tomatoes and aromatic basil dance alongside tender chicken pieces, creating a symphony of flavors that elevate traditional mac and cheese.

The recipe seamlessly blends Italian-inspired elements with the rich, cheesy foundation that makes this dish so irresistible.

Each bite promises a harmonious balance of textures and tastes that will surprise and delight your palate.

Crisp and melty components intermingle, promising a culinary experience that feels both familiar and excitingly new.

You’ll find this recipe irresistibly tempting and perfect for those seeking a gourmet spin on a beloved classic.

Instructions to Make Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese with Ease

Step 1: Prepare Seasoned Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Cook for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.

Step 2: Create Flavor Base

In the same pan, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth.

Step 3: Develop Creamy Sauce

Whisk cornstarch into evaporated milk, then pour into the pan. Mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Add macaroni noodles to the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until noodles are tender.

Step 5: Melt Cheese and Add Extras

• Diced tomatoes
• Fresh basil leaves

Step 6: Combine Chicken

Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Return chicken to the pan and stir to combine with the creamy pasta.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Transfer to serving dishes. Optional: Drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips to Perfect Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese Every Time

• Slice Chicken Smartly: Cut chicken breasts against the grain for tender, easy-to-eat pieces that blend perfectly with creamy mac and cheese.
• Choose Fresh Basil: Use vibrant, bright green basil leaves for maximum flavor and aromatic appeal in this classic Italian-inspired dish.
• Control Cheese Melting: Add cheeses gradually and stir constantly to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth, velvety sauce texture.
• Balance Tomato Moisture: Pat diced tomatoes with paper towels to remove excess liquid, preventing your mac and cheese from becoming watery.
• Perfect Balsamic Finish: Drizzle balsamic glaze sparingly just before serving to add a tangy, sweet accent without overwhelming the dish's delicate flavors.

Best Practices for Leftovers of Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store the chicken caprese macaroni and cheese in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Microwave Reheating: Transfer a single serving to a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly, until the dish reaches 165°F throughout.
• Stovetop Restoration: Pour leftovers into a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to revive the creamy texture. Stir gently and consistently until heated completely, preventing cheese from separating or burning.

What Goes Great with Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese

• Savor the Italian Wine Companion: Pair this creamy chicken caprese mac and cheese with a crisp Pinot Grigio or light Chianti, which beautifully cut through the richness and complement the fresh basil and tomato notes.
• Elevate with Fresh Salad Sidekick: Toss a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan to balance the dish's creaminess and add a bright, zesty contrast.
• Create Crunchy Garlic Bread Harmony: Serve alongside toasted garlic bread brushed with olive oil, providing a perfect crispy texture that enhances the soft, cheesy pasta and complements the chicken's seasoning.
• Add Vibrant Side Vegetable Pop: Roast some colorful bell peppers or zucchini with herbs, offering a light, nutritious accompaniment that adds visual appeal and nutritional balance to the indulgent main dish.

Unique Versions of Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese to Try

• Mediterranean Herb Infusion: Replace dried basil with a blend of fresh oregano, thyme, and rosemary for an aromatic Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Caprese Kick: Add red pepper flakes and diced jalapeños to bring a zesty heat that complements the creamy cheese and fresh tomatoes.
• Roasted Vegetable Upgrade: Incorporate roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for extra depth and nutrition, creating a more substantial one-pan meal.
• Pesto Fusion Version: Swirl in homemade or store-bought basil pesto during the final cheese melting stage to enhance the Italian-inspired essence of the dish.

Reasons You’ll Fall for Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese

• Elevate Classic Comfort: Transform traditional mac and cheese into a gourmet dish by infusing Italian Caprese flavors with tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic basil.
• One-Pan Convenience: Streamline your cooking process with this simple, hassle-free recipe that requires minimal cleanup and delivers maximum flavor in just 20 minutes.
• Protein-Packed Satisfaction: Enjoy a hearty meal that combines lean chicken protein with creamy cheese sauce, creating a balanced and filling dinner option for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Flavor Burst: Experience a vibrant taste profile where tangy balsamic glaze, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil complement the rich, melted cheese and perfectly cooked chicken.

What You’ll Need for Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that provides substance and flavor to the dish, best when fresh and boneless.
• Chicken Broth: Adds rich depth and liquid base for cooking pasta and enhancing overall taste.

• Evaporated Milk, Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Create creamy, stretchy texture with rich, tangy cheese flavor, choose high-quality varieties for best results.

• Macaroni Noodles: Classic pasta shape that holds cheese sauce perfectly, opt for standard or whole wheat options.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken sauce and create smooth, consistent texture.

• Garlic: Adds robust, aromatic flavor to the dish, fresh garlic provides best taste.
• Salt, Pepper, Dried Basil: Essential seasonings that enhance chicken and cheese flavors.

• Fresh Basil, Tomatoes: Bring bright, fresh elements to the rich mac and cheese, use ripe, in-season produce.

• Balsamic Glaze: Provides sweet-tangy finish, optional but recommended for extra flavor depth.

• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing chicken and preventing sticking, choose extra virgin for best flavor.

Chicken Caprese Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

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4.7 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Chicken Caprese Macaroni and Cheese blends Italian-American comfort with fresh Mediterranean flavors. Juicy chicken, melted mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes create a creamy pasta experience you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Macaroni and Cheese Ingredients:

Protein:

• 3 chicken breasts, thin cut or halved

Cheese:

• 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

Pasta and Base:

• 3 cups dried elbow macaroni
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Seasonings and Herbs:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

Garnish:

• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Balsamic glaze (optional topping)

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Instructions

1. Warm olive oil (29.5 milliliters or ) in a spacious skillet over medium-high temperature, creating an even heat distribution.
2. Season chicken breasts with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried basil, ensuring thorough coverage of the meat’s surface.
3. Sear chicken breasts for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side, developing a golden-brown exterior while maintaining internal juiciness.
4. Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board, allowing residual heat to stabilize the meat’s internal temperature.
5. Reduce skillet heat and introduce finely chopped garlic, sautéing for 25-30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
6. Pour chicken broth (240 milliliters or ) into the skillet, scraping any caramelized bits from the pan’s bottom.
7. Whisk cornstarch into evaporated milk (354 milliliters or 12 fluid ounces), creating a smooth, lump-free liquid mixture.
8. Pour milk mixture into the skillet, stirring continuously to prevent scorching and ensure even thickening.
9. Add macaroni noodles, stirring gently to prevent sticking, and simmer for 9-11 minutes until pasta reaches al dente consistency.
10. Incorporate shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, stirring until completely melted and creating a creamy sauce.
11. Fold in diced tomatoes and freshly chopped basil, distributing ingredients evenly throughout the dish.
12. Slice chicken breasts into thin, diagonal strips and reintroduce to the skillet, gently mixing to combine.
13. Plate the macaroni and cheese, optionally drizzling with balsamic glaze for an elegant finishing touch.

Notes

• Quick and Easy One-Pan Meal: Combines the comfort of mac and cheese with the fresh flavors of Caprese, creating a delightful twist on classic comfort food.
• Smart Cooking Technique: Uses the same pan for chicken, garlic, and sauce, maximizing flavor and minimizing cleanup.
• Protein-Packed Dinner: Chicken adds substantial protein, making this dish satisfying and nutritionally balanced.
• Versatile Ingredient Swaps: Can easily substitute chicken with turkey or use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
• Fresh Flavor Boosters: Fresh basil and tomatoes elevate the traditional mac and cheese, adding brightness and depth.
• Elegant Finishing Touch: Optional balsamic glaze drizzle transforms this homestyle dish into a restaurant-worthy presentation.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 456 cal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 870 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 115 mg