Craving a dish that combines the comforting goodness of mac and cheese with a zesty Mexican twist? Look no further than our Chicken Verde Pepper Jack Mac Cheese! This mouthwatering recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a breeze to whip up in just 40 minutes. Imagine creamy pepper jack cheese melting into a vibrant verde salsa, enveloping tender macaroni and succulent shredded chicken. Whether you're hosting a cozy family dinner or looking to impress friends at a casual gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Ready to dive into a bowl of cheesy goodness that’s bursting with flavor? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup verde salsa
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once butter is fully melted and slightly bubbling, add shredded chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
- Pour verde salsa into the skillet with chicken, stirring to combine and ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. Reduce heat to low.
- Add milk to the skillet, stirring gently to create a smooth sauce with the salsa and chicken. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add shredded pepper jack cheese to the skillet, stirring constantly to create a creamy cheese sauce. Ensure cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
- Add cooked macaroni to the skillet, gently folding and stirring to coat pasta completely with the verde cheese sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed. If sauce seems too thick, add a little more milk to reach desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to thicken slightly. Serve hot, garnishing with additional cheese or fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the macaroni al dente for the best texture. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce, so you want it to have a bit of bite.
- Shredded Chicken: For a quicker prep, consider using rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds an extra layer of flavor to your dish.
- Cheese Choices: While pepper jack cheese adds a nice kick, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a more complex flavor profile.
- Sauce Consistency: If you find the sauce too thick after adding the macaroni, don’t hesitate to stir in a splash more milk to achieve your desired creaminess.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your dish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of lime juice before serving for an extra burst of freshness.
- Make It Your Own: Customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or corn, to enhance both flavor and nutrition.
- Leftover Love: This dish stores well in the fridge, so make extra for delicious leftovers. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
