A cheesy, creamy, kid-friendly meal

Skip the long cook times of complicated dishes and instead turn to an option like this Skillet Macaroni and Cheese, a kid-friendly and parent-approved meal to turn hectic school nights into happy time with family. With a slight twist on the childhood classic, this version calls for chicken to add protein along with spinach and cherry tomatoes for increased veggie intake. Plus, it’s made with milk and cheese for added essential nutrients.

Skillet Macaroni and Cheese

Servings: 4-6

1 cup dried elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1 package (5 ounces) semisoft cheese with garlic and fine herbs
1 1/2 cups fat-free milk
1 tablespoon flour
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups fresh baby spinach
1 cup quartered cherry tomatoes

Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain. Heat large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, chicken and onion. Cook 6-8 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink. Reduce heat to medium. Stir in semisoft cheese. Gradually add milk and flour. Continue stirring and cooking until mixture is thickened and bubbly. Reduce heat to low. Add hot sauce, cheddar cheese and cooked macaroni. Cook and stir 1-2 minutes until cheese is melted. Stir in spinach. Top with cherry tomatoes and serve.

Recipe courtesy of Katie Serbinski of “Mom to Mom Nutrition” on behalf of Milk Means More