Lunch: Cheddar Parmesan Mac 'n Chicken

Recipe by Zan McCoy This is one of the most popular dishes at Rugby in Georgetown from Zan and Than McCoy, contestants on NBC's The Chopping Block. "This mac 'n chicken is out of bounds and fairly effortless," the brothers say. "Great eats!

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Chicken Breast

Health benefits of Cheddar Parmesan Mac 'n Chicken

Skinless chicken breast, often heralded for its lean nutritional profile, is undeniably a powerhouse when it comes to protein content. With an impressive 21 grams of protein packed into every 100 grams of the breast, it emerges as a preferred choice for those conscious about their protein intake. Delving deeper into the nutritional matrix of chicken, one can't overlook the copious amounts of vitamin B6 it houses. This particular vitamin plays an indispensable role in our body, especially when discussing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) management.

For individuals grappling with PCOS, the internal hormonal turbulence can be overwhelming, often leading to a spike in testosterone and androgen levels. This is where vitamin B6 comes into the spotlight. Acting as a balancer, vitamin B6 diligently works behind the scenes to keep these hormones in check, ensuring they don't surge beyond desirable levels. It is this equilibrium that becomes paramount for those earnestly looking to curtail the excessive flow of testosterone and androgen. In the broader spectrum of PCOS management, incorporating foods rich in vitamin B6, like chicken breast, can be a strategic move, providing both nutritional sustenance and hormonal balance.

Ingredients

1 tbsp. unsalted butter
1/2 chicken breast
2 tbsp. green scallion
1 pinch cayenne pepper
1 pinch ground nutmeg
1 pinch salt and pepper
1/4 c. brandy
1/2 c. medium pasta shells
1 tbsp. flour
3/4 c. heavy whipping cream
1/2 c. white cheddar cheese
1/2 c. smoked Gouda cheese
1/2 c. Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat oven to 500 degrees F. In large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt butter until pan begins to smoke. Add the cubed chicken breast and sauté. As the chicken begins to brown, add chopped scallions, cayenne, nutmeg, salt, and pepper and sauté for an additional 5 minutes.
Remove from flame (if using gas burner) and add brandy. Put back on burner and let reduce briefly (if using gas burner, flambé until alcohol is fully burned off). Add pasta and flour and toss until flour is fully integrated into butter and brandy.
Add cream and sauté until cream reduces and pasta and chicken are thick and creamy. Pour creamy pasta into bowl and toss in chunks of cheddar and Gouda cheese and toss with pasta and cream. Top with Parmesan cheese and place in oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until Parmesan is a crisp golden brown and cheese is melted.

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