Chicken Chili Mac & Cheese (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
02 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
03 - 2 poblano peppers, chopped and seeds removed
04 - 1 yellow onion, diced
05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil or salted butter

→ Seasonings

06 - ½ teaspoon chili powder
07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
09 - Black pepper and salt to taste

→ Sauce & Pasta

10 - 4 cups stock
11 - 1 pound short pasta
12 - 1 can of white beans, rinsed
13 - ½ cup green salsa
14 - 1 can (4 ounces) diced mild green chilies
15 - 4 ounces softened cream cheese
16 - 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, colby, or pepper jack)

→ Garnish

17 - Cilantro for topping
18 - Sliced green onions for serving

# Instructions:

01 - Heat your oven to 425°F.
02 - Sauté the chicken, onions, and oil in a big pot at medium-high for 5 minutes. Toss in poblanos, garlic, and spices. Cook another 5 minutes.
03 - Pour in broth, leave the lid partly on, and let it bubble for 5-10 minutes to cook the chicken. Take it out and shred it.
04 - Add both pasta and 2 cups water to the pot. Let it boil, then let it gently cook for 10 minutes, stirring often, till just right.
05 - Stir in shredded chicken, cream cheese, beans, green chilies, salsa, and 1 cup cheese. Put the rest of the cheese on top and bake until it melts, about 5-10 minutes.

# Notes:

01 - One-pot mashup of mac and cheese with chili flavors
02 - Use any cheese that melts well
03 - Pick thighs or breasts for the chicken