Creamy Chicken Macaroni Bake

This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Bake combines tender chicken, al dente macaroni, and a rich, cheesy sauce for a comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners. The addition of spinach and sun-dried tomatoes adds a burst of flavor and color, making it both appealing and nutritious. It's a balanced meal that satisfies both traditional and modern tastes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet, cooking until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, chicken mixture, heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.