Jerk Chicken Mac & Cheese Recipe

Name: Abby Singer's Bistros Jerk Chicken Mac & Cheese Recipe
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 4 pieces Chicken thighs; 3 tbs Jerk seasoning; 2 tbs Olive oil; 1 tbs Lime juice; 2 cups Pasta shells; 2 tbs Butter; 2 tbs All-purpose flour; 2 cups Milk; 2 cups Gouda cheese, shredded; 1 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Black pepper; 1 cup Breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Inspired by Abby Singer's Bistro

Time1h

Serves4

smoked jerk marinated chicken, Gouda cheese sauce, pasta shells

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Jumbo Hot Dog and a Coors

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Ingredients

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Chicken Marinade

4 pieces Chicken thighs

3 tbs Jerk seasoning

2 tbs olive oil

1 tbs ReaLime juice

Pasta and Cheese Sauce

2 cups Pasta shells

2 tbs Butter

2 tbs 00 bread flour

2 cups Milk

2 cups Gouda cheese, shredded

1 tsp Celtic sea salt

1 tsp black pepper

1 cup Breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Method

Marinating Chicken

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix the jerk seasoning, olive oil, and lime juice together.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for better flavor.

Cooking the Chicken

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or smoker to a medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes before shredding or chopping.

Making Mac & Cheese

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens. Lower the heat and add the shredded Gouda cheese, salt, and black pepper, stirring until the cheese is melted and smooth.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta shells and shredded chicken to the cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Optional Topping

If desired, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.