This Spicy Chicken Taco Mac and Cheese in a Crispy Tortilla Bowl is the ultimate comfort food with a fun twist. It combines the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with flavorful chicken, all served in a crunchy tortilla bowl. The dish is perfect for satisfying your cravings for both cheesy pasta and spicy taco flavors in one meal. The blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses gives it a rich creaminess, while jalapenos and red chili powder add a spicy kick, making this recipe a winner for any occasion.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Tortilla Bowl:
- 1 wheat tortilla (10 inches / 24 cm)
- Cooking oil (for coating)
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 109g chicken breast, cut into small pieces
- 80g macaroni
- 1 tsp salt (for boiling macaroni)
- 20g unsalted butter
- 42g (3 tbsp) chopped onion
- 18g (1 tbsp) minced garlic
- 48g (3 tbsp) tomato pasta sauce
- 5g (1 tbsp) red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 34g (2 tbsp) chopped jalapenos
- 0.3 tsp black pepper powder
- 150ml milk
- 50g cheddar cheese, shredded
- 40g mozzarella cheese, shredded
For Garnish (Optional):
- Cheddar cheese, shredded (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tortilla Bowl
- Warm the Tortilla: Gently heat the tortilla in the microwave for about 30 seconds to make it more pliable.
- Shape the Bowl: Lightly coat both sides of the tortilla with cooking oil. Place the tortilla into a gratin bowl or any oven-safe bowl (with an inner diameter of 17 cm), pleating it to form a bowl shape.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 190°C (374°F). Place the tortilla bowl in the oven and bake for 7-8 minutes or until crispy and golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
- Boil the Macaroni: In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add 1 tsp salt and the macaroni. Cook for about 9 minutes until al dente (or according to package instructions). Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken and Sauce
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a pan, melt 20g of unsalted butter over low heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, frying until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the small pieces of chicken breast to the pan. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the tomato pasta sauce, red chili powder, chopped jalapenos, and black pepper powder. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add Milk: Pour in 150ml of milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Incorporate Macaroni and Cheese: Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce. Stir well to ensure the macaroni is evenly coated with the sauce. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy and rich.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Fill the Tortilla Bowl: Spoon the spicy chicken mac and cheese mixture into the prepared tortilla bowl.
- Optional Topping: For extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy the combination of creamy, cheesy mac and cheese with the crispy, crunchy tortilla bowl.
Cooking Tips:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder and jalapenos to suit your preferred spice level. If you like it milder, reduce the chili or omit the jalapenos.
- Tortilla Variations: If you don’t have a large tortilla, you can use smaller ones to make mini tortilla bowls. Adjust the baking time to ensure they become crispy without burning.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for added flavor.
- Make It Veggie: You can substitute the chicken with veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or black beans for a vegetarian version.
Storage:
- Leftovers: Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The tortilla bowl is best eaten fresh, as it can become soggy over time.
- Reheating: Reheat the mac and cheese in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of milk to bring back its creamy consistency.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 34g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs:
- Can I make the tortilla bowls ahead of time?
- Yes, you can bake the tortilla bowls a few hours ahead. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to fill.
- Can I use store-bought mac and cheese?
- Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought mac and cheese and simply add the cooked chicken and spices to elevate the flavor.
- What can I substitute for chicken?
- You can substitute the chicken with ground beef, turkey, or even tofu for a plant-based option. Season it with the same spices for a flavorful result.
- How do I keep the tortilla bowl crispy?
- Serve the tortilla bowl immediately after assembling to maintain its crispiness. If left too long, the moisture from the filling can soften the tortilla.
Conclusion:
Spicy Chicken Taco Mac and Cheese in a Crispy Tortilla Bowl is a fun and flavorful fusion meal that brings together the best of both worlds—cheesy mac and cheese and spicy taco flavors. The crispy tortilla bowl adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the creamy filling. Whether you’re serving this for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress. With its customizable spice level and endless topping options, you can easily adapt it to your taste. Enjoy this mouthwatering meal, and don’t forget to garnish with extra cheese and fresh herbs for the perfect finishing touch!