Hähnchen Mac Cheese Genuss (Print Version)

Zarte Hähnchenstücke vereint mit cremiger Käse-Sauce und Makkaroni – ein herzhaftes Wohlfühlgericht.

# What You'll Need:

→ Poultry

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.1 lb)

→ Pasta

02 - 9 oz elbow macaroni

→ Dairy

03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
05 - 2 cups whole milk
06 - 7 oz shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
07 - 3.5 oz shredded Mozzarella cheese
08 - 1.75 oz grated Parmesan cheese

→ Seasoning

09 - 1 teaspoon prepared mustard (optional)
10 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - 1 teaspoon paprika
12 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

13 - Fresh parsley, chopped

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Heat a drizzle of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 6 to 8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and let rest before dicing into small cubes.
02 - Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni following package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color, forming a roux.
04 - Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until sauce thickens, 3 to 5 minutes. Reduce heat and stir in Cheddar, Mozzarella, and Parmesan until fully melted and smooth.
05 - Add mustard if using, then season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir thoroughly to combine flavors.
06 - Add cooked macaroni and diced chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until pasta and chicken are evenly coated.
07 - For a golden crust, transfer mixture to an oven-safe dish and broil under high heat for 3 to 5 minutes. Remove before the topping burns.
08 - Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while warm.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce; pre-shredded cheeses may contain anti-caking agents that affect texture.
02 - Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushy texture when combined with the cheese sauce.
03 - Allow the chicken to rest briefly before dicing to retain juices and prevent dryness.