Chicken A La Queen
Chicken A La Queen is a comforting and creamy dish featuring tender chicken, savory tomato sauce, and melted Parmesan cheese, all combined with macaroni and fresh vegetables. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, it offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute macaroni, onion, and green pepper until macaroni turns yellow.
- Add tomato sauce, water, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil.
- Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Mix in chicken and broth.
- Sprinkle cheese over top and simmer for 5 minutes more.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a can of cream of mushroom soup or a splash of heavy cream. If you're short on time, substitute canned chicken with rotisserie chicken for a quick fix. You can also use whole wheat macaroni for a healthier option. Season with Italian herbs for an extra flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken A La Queen with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables for added nutrition. For a heartier option, try it alongside Noodle And Hamburger Casserole, creating a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken A La Queen contains roughly 853 calories, with 14g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value) and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1219mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?
Absolutely! You can substitute elbow macaroni with penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check the package instructions to ensure the pasta is cooked perfectly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this dish to be vegetarian by replacing the chicken with canned chickpeas or cooked lentils. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of water for enhanced flavor. This way, you can enjoy a hearty meal without any meat.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top before serving. This will elevate the flavor profile and appeal to those who enjoy spicy food.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).