Spicy Green Chili Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups

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Spicy Green Chili Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups are a flavorful and fun twist on the traditional mac and cheese. These cheesy, bite-sized delights combine the comforting taste of mac and cheese with the savory flavors of rotisserie chicken and a spicy kick from green chilies. Perfect for parties, snacks, or a unique main dish, these cups are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
  • 8 oz chopped green chilies
  • 2 tsp Mexican oregano
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni, cooked
  • 2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Coat a muffin tin with cooking spray or place paper liners in each cup.
  2. Prepare the Topping:
    • In a small bowl, mix together the Panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Set aside.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
    • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns light golden brown.
    • Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
    • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and pepper jack cheese until melted and smooth.
  4. Combine the Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, combine the cooked elbow macaroni, chopped green chilies, Mexican oregano, diced red bell pepper, black pepper, chopped rotisserie chicken, and the cheese sauce.
  5. Assemble the Muffins:
    • Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup to the top.
    • Sprinkle the Panko-Parmesan topping over each cup.
  6. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the muffins are set.
  7. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the mac and cheese cups to cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before removing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Conclusion

Spicy Green Chili Chicken Mac and Cheese Cups are a delicious and inventive way to enjoy a classic comfort food. These savory muffins are packed with cheesy goodness, tender chicken, and a spicy kick that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in every bite!