Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese

Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese
Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese

Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese

This delicious rendition of mac and cheese combines the rich flavors of butter chicken with creamy pasta, creating a comforting dish that’s sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups macaroni pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, diced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella blend)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the garam masala, paprika, and turmeric, cooking for 1 minute more.
  6. Pour in the tomato sauce and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  7. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir in the macaroni and half of the cheese until everything is well coated.
  8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese and place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute any type of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, based on your preference.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, you can include chopped green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper in the sauce.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
A blend of cheddar and mozzarella gives a great flavor and texture, but you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the dish before baking. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it before baking it as instructed.
What can I serve with Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese?
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top