Introduction to a Comforting Meal

The search for a quick and comforting meal can be a daunting task, especially during busy times of the year. However, some dishes stand out for their ability to provide both comfort and speed, and chicken mac and cheese is certainly one of them. This classic comfort food, when combined with a simple lettuce and tomato salad, makes for a satisfying and easy meal.

The Appeal of Chicken Mac and Cheese

Chicken mac and cheese is a beloved dish for many reasons. It’s not only delicious, with its creamy sauce and tender pasta, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, especially when using store-bought cooked chicken. The simplicity of boiling elbow macaroni and then combining it with a quick cheese sauce, chicken, and spices makes it a go-to option for a fast yet satisfying meal.

Preparing the Dish

To prepare chicken mac and cheese, start by boiling water for the macaroni. While the macaroni cooks, assemble the other ingredients, including chicken broth, diced red onion, shredded Cheddar cheese, nonfat ricotta cheese, smoked paprika, and cooked chicken breast. Once the macaroni is done, drain it and add it to a cheese sauce made by simmering the chicken broth with onion and then stirring in the cheeses and spices. Finally, add the cooked chicken and toss everything together.

Helpful Hints for Preparation

• Any type of onion can be used in place of red onion.
• Short cut pasta can be substituted for elbow macaroni.
• Look for cooked or rotisserie chicken breast in the meat department for convenience.

Countdown to a Quick Meal

1. Place water for macaroni on to boil.
2. Assemble ingredients.
3. Boil macaroni.
4. Make cheese sauce.
5. Add macaroni to sauce.

Shopping List

To make chicken mac and cheese with a lettuce and tomato salad, you’ll need:

• 1 container elbow macaroni
• 1 container no-salt-added chicken broth
• 1 bag shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1 carton nonfat ricotta cheese
• 1 small piece Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces cooked chicken breast
• 1 bottle smoked paprika
• 1 red onion
• 1 bag washed, ready-to-eat Romaine lettuce
• 1 bottle reduced fat salad dressing
• Salt and black peppercorns

Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Recipe by Linda Gassenheimer

• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 cup no-salt-add chicken broth
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 3/4 cup shredded reduced fat sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup nonfat ricotta cheese
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 8 ounces cooked chicken breast cut into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Place a pot containing 3 to 4 quarts of water on to boil for pasta. Add macaroni and boil 8 minutes. Meanwhile, add chicken broth to a saucepan and place over medium-high heat to bring it to a simmer. Add onion and simmer 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in Cheddar cheese and ricotta cheese. Mix well. Add smoked paprika, chicken, and Parmesan cheese. When ready, drain the macaroni and add to cheese sauce. Toss well and add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately on two dinner plates.

Yield: 2 servings.
Per serving: 614 calories (22 percent from fat), 15.3 g fat (6.3 g saturated, 3.0 g monounsaturated), 139 mg cholesterol, 57.9 g protein, 54.7 g carbohydrates, 3.0 g fiber, 498 mg sodium.

Lettuce and Tomato Salad Recipe

Recipe by Linda Gassenheimer

• 2 cups washed, ready-to-eat Romaine lettuce cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 ripe medium tomato, washed and cut into eighths
• 2 tablespoons reduced fat salad dressing
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Add lettuce and tomato to bowl and toss with dressing. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Serve with Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Yield: 2 servings
Per serving: 35 calories (32 percent from fat), 1.3 g fat (0.1 g saturated, 0.4 g monounsaturated), 1 mg cholesterol, 1.4 g protein, 5.7 g carbohydrates, 2.1 g fiber, 13 mg sodium.

Conclusion

Chicken mac and cheese with a lettuce and tomato salad is a meal that combines comfort, speed, and nutritional value. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted with various ingredients and spices, making it suitable for a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal during a busy time, this dish is sure to satisfy.

FAQs

• Q: Can I use different types of cheese for the mac and cheese?
  A: Yes, you can experiment with various cheeses to find the combination that you like best.
• Q: Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
  A: While the mac and cheese is best served immediately, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving.
• Q: Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
  A: Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the lettuce and tomato salad for added flavor and nutrition.