Green Chili Chicken Mac

This Green Chili Chicken Mac is a comforting, creamy skillet macaroni featuring tender chicken, mild green chiles, and a blend of melty cheeses for a Southwestern-inspired twist on classic mac and cheese. It is the perfect easy meal for those seeking a flavorful upgrade to a traditional favorite.

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The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the balance of ingredients. By combining succulent diced chicken breast with a homemade cheese sauce, you create a satisfying main dish that is both hearty and sophisticated. The subtle tang of the green chiles perfectly cuts through the richness of the dairy.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni or small pasta shells
• Chicken: 2 cups (about 300 g) cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• Sauce: 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter, 2 tbsp (15 g) all-purpose flour, 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk, 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Chiles & Cheese: 2 cans (4 oz each) mild diced green chiles (drained), 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 1 cup (115 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Garnish (optional): 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1 jalapeño (thinly sliced)

Instructions

Step 1

Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

Step 3

Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 5

Add Monterey Jack, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until smooth and fully melted.

Step 6

Fold in the green chiles and cooked chicken. Simmer for 2 minutes to heat through.

Step 7

Add the cooked macaroni, stirring until well coated and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 8

Remove from heat. Garnish with cilantro and sliced jalapeño if desired. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Using rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works well for this recipe to save time. To ensure a smooth sauce, make sure to whisk the flour and butter constantly before gradually adding the liquids.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a spicier version, use hot green chiles or add a pinch of cayenne. You can also swap Monterey Jack for pepper Jack for extra zest and a bolder flavor profile.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this Green Chili Chicken Mac with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. It is best enjoyed hot, immediately after assembly.

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Enjoy this delightful and easy-to-make Green Chili Chicken Mac. It is a satisfying dish that brings the warm flavors of the Southwest to your dinner table in every cheesy bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves preparation time. Simply shred or dice about 2 cups of the cooked meat. The smoky flavor actually enhances the Southwestern profile of this dish.

→ What type of green chiles are best for this dish?

Mild canned diced green chiles (like Hatch or poblano varieties) work perfectly for this dish. They provide flavor without overwhelming heat. For a spicier version, use hot varieties or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this through step 6, then cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, gently reheat over medium-low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess, then add the cooked pasta and finish.

→ What cheese combinations work well in this dish?

Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar are excellent together. You can substitute pepper Jack for extra zest, or try a combination of gruyere and fontina for deeper flavor. Always finish with Parmesan for a nutty finishing touch.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If your sauce thickens too much during cooking, whisk in additional milk or chicken broth a little at a time until you reach desired consistency. The macaroni will continue absorbing liquid, so start with slightly looser sauce than you ultimately want.

→ What sides pair well with this Southwestern mac and cheese?

A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette complements the rich flavors perfectly. Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add freshness. Garlic bread or a simple cilantro-lime slaw also work wonderfully.