Easy and Delicious Chicken Macaroni Tomato Onion Recipe

Craving Comfort Food? Try This One-Pan Chicken with Macaroni, Onions, and Tomatoes!

Imagine a dish that’s both incredibly flavorful and remarkably easy to prepare – that’s exactly what you get with this recipe! Tender chicken, perfectly cooked macaroni, sweet onions, and juicy tomatoes all baked together in one pan. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress, whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself to something delicious. Ready to dive in?

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s a flavor explosion with the savory chicken, sweet onions, and tangy tomatoes all coming together beautifully.
• Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Who doesn’t love fewer dishes?
• The macaroni absorbs all the delicious flavors of the chicken and vegetables, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
• It’s a great weeknight meal because it’s quick and easy to throw together after a long day.
• This recipe is flexible! Easily customize it with your favorite herbs, spices, or even cheese.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this dish apart is the simplicity of baking everything together in one go. Unlike other recipes that might require pre-cooking elements separately, this approach allows the flavors to meld perfectly while the macaroni cooks right in the sauce, resulting in a creamy texture and intense flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, the baked tomatoes create this beautiful sweet and savory sauce that just envelops every other ingredient.

Ingredient List

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  (for sautéing, olive oil adds a richer flavor, but any cooking oil will work)
• Optional: 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  (for a cheesy topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. This doesn’t need to be cooked through at this point.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the uncooked macaroni and the chicken broth to the skillet. Ensure the macaroni is mostly covered by the liquid. Stir well.
6. Cover the skillet (if using a Dutch oven) or cover tightly with foil if using a skillet.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the macaroni is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
8. Remove the cover and continue baking for another 5 minutes if you want a little more browning on top.
9. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using) and let it melt for another minute or two.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Here are a few ideas:

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped and sprinkled on top right before serving, add a burst of freshness.
• A dollop of ricotta cheese on top adds a creamy, rich element.
• A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a little heat.
• A handful of spinach can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.

Expert Tips

• Ensure your macaroni is mostly covered by the liquid to prevent it from sticking to the pan and drying out.
• Don’t overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente, as it will continue to cook as it sits after baking.
• Adjust the seasoning to your preference before baking.
• Use good quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, after baking remove the cover and simmer the mixture on the stovetop for a few minutes until you achieve the desired thickness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use different types of pasta?
  

  Yes, you can use other short-cut pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary slightly, so keep a close eye on it.

• Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
  

  Absolutely! Shrimp or Italian sausage would work wonderfully in this dish as well. Remember to adjust the cooking time as needed.

• How can I store leftovers?
  

  Store any leftover Chicken with Macaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  

  Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure the dish is heated all the way through.

• Can I add cheese other than parmesan?
  

  Yes, mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of your favorite cheeses would be fantastic additions. Be sure to add them during the last few minutes of baking so they melt perfectly.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to tailor this recipe to your taste? Here are some fun ideas:

• Mediterranean Flair: Add Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a pinch of dried oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or some chopped jalapeños for some heat.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 10 minutes of cooking for an extra creamy texture.
• Veggie Lovers: Add some bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms along with the onions for extra vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to make your dinner even more special. Serve it with a side salad with a light vinaigrette or garlic bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce. It pairs nicely with roasted vegetables if you’d like an additional side.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Chicken with Macaroni, Onions, and Tomatoes is the perfect recipe for a delicious and easy meal that’s sure to impress. It’s customizable, quick to make, and incredibly satisfying. Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share your photos and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes!

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