Chicken Taco Mac Cheese (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
02 -
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
03 -
1 medium onion, chopped
04 -
2½ cups elbow macaroni
05 -
1½ cups chicken broth
06 -
10 oz can Rotel tomatoes (undrained)
07 -
8 oz can tomato sauce
08 -
1 tablespoon minced garlic
09 -
2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
10 -
½ cup whole milk
→ Seasonings and Garnish
11 -
½ teaspoon salt
12 -
½ teaspoon black pepper
13 -
2 teaspoons chili powder
14 -
1 teaspoon ground cumin
15 -
1 teaspoon dried cilantro
16 -
Fresh cilantro for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and chopped onion to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and dried cilantro. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until chicken is nearly cooked through.
02 -
Stir in the minced garlic, then add the elbow macaroni, chicken broth, undrained Rotel tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Mix everything together well to combine all ingredients evenly.
03 -
Increase heat slightly and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once you see steady bubbles throughout, you're ready for the next step.
04 -
Reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Let it simmer for about 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir at least once halfway through to keep the macaroni from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
05 -
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded Colby Jack cheese and milk. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese melts completely and creates a creamy sauce.
06 -
Serve immediately while hot, topped with fresh chopped cilantro. Let it rest for a few minutes if you prefer a thicker consistency, as it will continue to thicken as it cools slightly.
# Notes:
01 -
Don't drain the Rotel - the liquid helps cook the pasta and adds extra flavor to the dish
02 -
Stir at least once during cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan
03 -
The dish will thicken as it cools, so serve immediately for the creamiest texture
04 -
Leftovers can be thinned with a little milk or broth when reheating to restore creaminess