This Mac and Cheese recipe is made with deliciously yummy Italian cheese sauce.
It was kicked up a notch by adding fresh broccoli florets and juicy cooked breaded chicken breast.
A complete meal with cheesy pasta, favorite Italian flavors and tender bites of chicken and broccoli.
Because cheese contains differing amounts of moisture, add the milk to desired consistency. The amount milk used in a cheese sauce can change each time when a different cheese combination is used.
Read More About The Top Nine Varieties Of Cheese’s Enjoyed By Food Lovers
Italian Style Chicken Broccoli Mac & Cheese
2 chicken breast, cut in half vertically
1 1/2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
3 eggs, lightly beaten
3 tablespoons milk
1 1/2 cups Italian seasoned bread crumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons dried parsley
8 ounces gluten-free Penne Rigate pasta
1⁄4 cup butter
1/4 cup all purpose flour
1⁄2 teaspoon Himalayan salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups milk, warmed
1 – 8 ounce package Italian cheese
In a small bowl, beat together the eggs and milk. In a separate small bowl, mix the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
Melt 2-3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then into the bread crumb mixture, coating evenly. Place coated chicken in the skillet, and cook 7-8 minutes each side. Remove chicken from heat and set aside.
Cook macaroni according to package directions.
Chop broccoli florets and set aside.
Do not empty hot water from pot. Remove cooked macaroni with a slotted spoon and rinse pasta under cold water in a colander.
Return pot to burner and add chopped broccoli florets to hot water. Return water to a boil and cook broccoli for 4-5 minutes or until fork tender, but not mushy.
In medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; stir in flour, and cook for 3-5 minutes stirring constantly to form a roux; add salt and pepper; slowly add milk, stirring well after each addition.
Cook’s Notes – What Is A Roux
A roux is a 17th century culinary French invention. It is a smooth paste, made from flour and fat. The ratios typically call for equal parts of each.
A roux is added to sauces, soups or gravy’s to make them thick, smooth and rich.
Cook and stir until bubbly.
Add chicken and broccoli florets to roux and mix in. Next add cheese a small amount at a time until fully melted.
Place heat proof skillet or baking dish with Mac & cheese mixture under broiler, about 6-8 inches from heating element.
Let top of mixture brown a little. Watch very closely so it doesn’t burn.
Remove from broiler. Let cool about 5 minutes. Plate and serve with a dinner salad.
Read More About Cooking With Broccoli
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