Chicken Vegetable Macaroni

Making a delicious and nutritious Chicken Vegetable Macaroni at home is a delightful way to bring comfort and satisfaction to your meal times. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings. Here, we provide a comprehensive guide to help you create the perfect Chicken Vegetable Macaroni, ensuring every bite is flavorful and fulfilling.

Ingredients You Will Need

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon

For the Macaroni:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon salt

For the Vegetable Mix:

  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup bell peppers (assorted colors, diced)
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels
  • 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a mix of your choice)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in a bowl.
  2. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Ensure all pieces are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

Step 2: Cooking the Macaroni

  1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add a tablespoon of salt.
  2. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Drain the macaroni and set aside. Toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Preparing the Vegetables

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the diced carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
  4. Stir in the sweet corn and peas. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until all the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.

Step 4: Cooking the Chicken

  1. In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Set aside.

Step 5: Making the Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
  3. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Add the shredded cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and thickened.

    See Also:
    How To Make Chicken Manchurian In Restaurant Style

Step 6: Combining All Components

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, sautéed vegetables, and cooked chicken.
  2. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish if you prefer a baked finish, or you can serve it directly from the bowl.

Step 7: Optional Baking

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread the macaroni mixture evenly in a baking dish.
  3. Top with extra shredded cheese if desired.
  4. Bake for about 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Vegetable Macaroni can be served as a standalone main course or as a side dish. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad and a slice of crusty bread. This dish is also perfect for meal prepping, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.

Tips for the Best Chicken Vegetable Macaroni

  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will elevate the flavor of your dish.
  • Customize your vegetables: Feel free to substitute or add any other vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference. A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
  • Cheese variety: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gouda for a unique flavor profile.
  • Make it creamy: For an extra creamy sauce, you can add a bit of cream cheese or heavy cream.

Conclusion

Making Chicken Vegetable Macaroni at home is a straightforward and rewarding culinary experience. By following these detailed steps, you can create a dish that is both delicious and nutritious, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this comforting meal.

Similar Posts