Fixing Family Favorites

Dare I say fall is here? The leaves falling tells us it is :)  With that in mind, we start thinking about "fall" food recipes. That usually equals comfort food. Guess what? Comfort food does not have to equal carb and fat overload.

All it takes is a "healthier" twist on a family favorite recipe. AND here it is! Mac and cheese! Just add broccoli and chicken. Don't like broccoli? Sub another green vegetable!

You can even get the kids in on this one (because let's face it...what kid doesn't like mac n cheese?)

Macaroni and Cheese with Chicken and Broccoli

1 tbsp+1tsp unsalted organic butter

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

2 tbsp whole wheat flour

1/2 tsp paprika

1  1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk)

1 1/4 cups freshly grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice-NOT processed)

4 cups whole-wheat elbow macaroni (or gluten-free)

3 cups chopped cooked chicken breast (skinless)

4 cups chopped steamed broccoli florets

1/2 tsp salt and pepper

Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, cook stirring frequently for 1 minute. Add flour and paprika; cook, whisking constantly for 1 minute, or until light brown (avoid burning). Slowly whisk in milk; cook, whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes, or until mixture thickens and there are no lumps. Reduce heat to low. Add cheese; cook, whisking constantly, for 2-3 minutes, or until melted. Add macaroni, chicken, broccoli, salt and pepper; cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute or until heated through. Enjoy!