Description
This Healthy Macaroni with Chicken is a quick and easy one-pan dish that’s ready in just 10 minutes! Made with shredded chicken, fresh tomatoes, garlic, mozzarella, and herbs, this light and flavorful version of macaroni and cheese is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Even picky eaters will love it!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1/2 cup macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mozzarella, shredded
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp tomato paste
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Ingredients: Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add chopped tomatoes, shredded chicken, and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down into a sauce.
- Cook the Macaroni: Add ¼ cup water, tomato paste, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the macaroni and dill, ensuring the pasta is just covered with sauce (not submerged).
- Simmer Until Tender: Cook until the macaroni is tender (follow package instructions).
- Make it Cheesy: Stir in the mozzarella and let it melt, creating a creamy tomato sauce.
- Serve Immediately! Garnish with extra fresh dill if desired.
Notes
- Quick Cooking Tip: Use quick-cooking macaroni (3-5 minutes) or pre-cooked pasta to speed things up.
- More Flavor: Add basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes for a twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap mozzarella for nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese.
- Extra Protein: Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added nutrients.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg