💛 Creamy Herb Mac & Cheese Bowl with Grilled Chicken and Veggie Medley 🧀🥦🥕
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories per Serving: ~620 kcal
🛒 Ingredients:
For the creamy herb pasta:
🍝 200g pasta (cavatappi or elbow macaroni)
🧄 1 tbsp butter
🥛 3/4 cup heavy cream
🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
🌿 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley
🧂 Salt & black pepper to taste
For the chicken:
🍗 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
🧂 Salt & pepper to season
🧄 1 tsp garlic powder
🌿 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
🫒 1 tbsp olive oil
🥄 1 tbsp honey mustard or light gravy (optional drizzle)
For the vegetables:
🥕 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
🥦 1 small head of broccoli, cut into florets
🧂 Salt to taste
🧈 1 tsp butter (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions:
Boil Pasta:
Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make Cheese Sauce:
In a pan, melt butter. Add cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley. Toss in pasta to coat.
Cook Chicken:
Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Grill chicken 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Rest, then slice.
Steam Vegetables:
Steam broccoli and carrots until fork-tender (about 5–6 minutes). Season lightly with salt and a touch of butter if desired.
Assemble the Bowl:
Fill half the bowl with creamy herb pasta. Add sliced chicken, drizzle lightly with honey mustard or gravy. Place steamed vegetables beside. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
💡 Notes & Variations:
Protein switch: Try grilled salmon or tofu for a twist.
Cheese blend idea: Add mozzarella or parmesan for extra richness.