Comfort Food: Parmesan Crusted Chicken, Baked Mac n' Cheese

It's getting cold outside, dark early (I mean really...I was ready for bed before I left work today), and nothing sounds better than some comfort food, a fireplace, and a warm blanket. That's why I wanted to kick-off the winter season off right when some comfort food favorites. Now, let's be clear - comfort food is supposed to make you feel good - that's why it's called "comfort food". If you are watching your carbs (which I am), I ask that you simply look past that. Besides, sweaters are good for hiding those winter lbs ;)

Mac n' Cheese

1 Box pasta (I prefer large bow-tie or penne - use Wholewheat!)

2 Cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar

2 Cups Shredded Colby Jack

1 Cup Velveeta Cheese

1 Can Cheddar Cheese Soup

1/2 Can Whole Milk

1 Cup Panko Bread Crumbs (Progresso of course!)

1/2 Teaspoon Cayenne Pepper

So I know I've blogged about this dish before, but I have REALLY perfected it. If you made the original, PLEASE abort that mission and try this. It will make all of your dinner attendees very happy. 

First boil your pasta (as always, add salt and Olive Oil to your water) and pre-heat your oven to 375 degrees. Meanwhile, shred the cheeses. Once the noodles are ready, drain and throw back into the pan. Make sure you turn down the heat on your stove, but don't turn off all the way. The heat will help melt the cheese, but you don't want to noodles to stick to the bowl. 

Simply add all of the can of soup and milk, 1/2 of the shredded cheese and all of the velveeta cheese. Mix all of this together thoroughly, and then place in a baking dish. On the top, add the remaining cheese and the breadcrumbs. Place in the oven for 15-20 minutes.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

2 Chicken Breasts

1/2 Stick of butter

1 Clove of garlic

1 Cup of Breadcrumbs

1/3 Cup of Parmesan Cheese

1 tablespoon thyme

1 tablespoon oregano

1 tablespoon basil

For this dish, simply take all of the dry ingredients and mix together in a medium bowl. Melt the butter in a separate dish with the garlic, and dip the chicken breast. After dipping in the butter/garlic, place in the dry mix and cover completely. Place on a greased cooking sheet at 375 for 25-30 minutes.

You're going to LOVE this dish - I know it. I have left-overs in my fridge that I can't wait to eat. You gotta be careful though - comfort food isn't for everyday! I'm thinking that once a week is the limit :)


Until next time....happy cooking!