CHICKEN AND BACON MACARONI AND CHEESE RECIPES

Steps:

• Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente; drain. Preheat broiler. , In a 10-inch cast-iron or other ovenproof skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until blended; cook and stir until lightly browned, 1-2 minutes (do not burn). Gradually whisk in cream, milk, Cajun seasoning, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat; cook and stir until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in cheese until melted. Add pasta, chicken, bacon and jalapeno; cook and stir until heated through. Sprinkle chips over top., Broil 3-4 inches from heat until chips are browned, about 30 seconds.

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 375 F
• Arrange the bacon on a slotted broiler pan or on a rack placed over a baking sheet and bake until crisp, about 15 minutes
• Chop and reserve
• Switch on the broiler and position the rack in the center of the oven
• Bring a pot of water to boil, salt it, add pasta and cook 1 minute less then instructions indicate, or until just shy of al dente
• Drain and return to the pot
• While pasta is working, heat grill pan or cast-iron griddle over medium-high heat
• Drizzle chicken with EVOO to coat lightly then season evenly with paprika, salt and pepper
• Grill chicken for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally
• Transfer to a cutting board and halve the pieces lengthwise, then thinly slice crosswise
• While the chicken cooks, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat
• Add the onion and cook until light golden brown and very soft, 15 to 20 minutes
• Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute
• Whisk in cider (or stock), then add milk
• Bring to a boil and cook, whisking, until the sauce coats the back of a spoon, 3 to 4 minutes
• Add thyme and season with salt, pepper and nutmeg
• Stir in the cheese until melted
• Add the chicken, bacon and sauce to the pasta and transfer to a casserole
• Broil until bubbling and browned, about 5 minutes
• Garnish with parsley or celery greens