Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet

Warm up your autumn evenings with the delicious Autumn Harvest Chili Chicken Mac Skillet! If you’re looking for a cozy meal that brings the family together, this dish is just what you need. It combines creamy macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of chili, creating a comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends. I love how it celebrates the season with vibrant ingredients and hearty flavors, making it a favorite in my fall recipe collection.

This Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet is not only satisfying but also nutritious. Packed with tender chicken, black beans, corn, and plenty of spices, you’ll find it to be a delightful fusion that warms your heart and fills your belly. Gather around the table and enjoy this beautiful dish that’s bound to become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and flavorful spices, everyone will love digging into this comforting bowl.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans, it’s a healthy dinner option.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep this dish ahead of time for easy reheating during the week.
• Versatile Options: Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences or what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet are simple and wholesome. Here’s what you need to whip up this hearty dish:

For the Skillet

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cubed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Toppings

• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can customize it based on what you have at home or your family’s taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost the nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you’re craving some heat.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with pepper jack or mozzarella for unique cheesy goodness.

How to Make Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add in the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Cooking it just right ensures that it’s not too soft when mixed later. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the cubed chicken breast. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. This step builds flavor as the chicken browns beautifully.

Step 3: Add Veggies & Spices

Next, stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes. This melds all those lovely flavors while allowing the spices to infuse into the dish.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Pour in the chicken broth and cooked macaroni into the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes until heated through. The pasta will soak up some of that delicious broth!

Step 5: Cheese It Up!

Finally, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Allow it to melt beautifully as you stir everything together one last time. This step adds that creamy richness everyone loves!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Serve hot from the skillet topped with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired. Enjoy this comforting Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet with your loved ones—it’s sure to warm hearts as well as bellies!

Pro Tips for Making Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet

Ready to make your cooking experience even better? Here are some pro tips to ensure your Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors, making your dish not only more delicious but also healthier. Opt for seasonal produce to truly embrace the autumn spirit.
• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking your macaroni just until it’s al dente (firm to the bite) ensures that it holds its shape in the skillet and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the chili sauce.
• Customize spices: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning! If you love a little heat, add extra chili powder or cayenne pepper. For a milder flavor, reduce the spices according to your preference.
• Make it a meal prep hero: This dish is perfect for meal prepping! You can easily double the recipe and store leftovers in airtight containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Experiment with toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding avocado slices or a dollop of dairy-free sour cream to add creaminess and a fresh twist.

How to Serve Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet

Serving this hearty dish can turn a simple weeknight dinner into an inviting family feast. Here are some ideas on how to present your Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a refreshing flavor that complements the chili perfectly.
• Sliced green onions: These not only add a nice crunch but also provide an extra layer of flavor that enhances each bite.
• Lime wedges: Offering lime wedges on the side invites everyone to squeeze some citrus over their servings, brightening up the dish.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing brings a sweet balance to the spicy chili flavors. Plus, it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce!
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: With their crispy edges and tender hearts, roasted Brussels sprouts offer a nutritious side that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac.
• Simple green salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can lighten up your meal while providing essential nutrients.
• Guacamole and tortilla chips: For an extra treat, serve guacamole alongside crunchy tortilla chips as an appetizer or snack before diving into the main dish.

Gather around and enjoy this delightful Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet with your loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dish throughout the week. Preparing this recipe in advance not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Allow the skillet to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each interval for even warming.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make the Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance or freeze it for later use.

What other ingredients can I add to my Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet?

Feel free to customize your skillet with veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even some diced tomatoes. Get creative!

How do I adapt the Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet for a vegetarian option?

For a vegetarian version, simply replace chicken with black beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just ensure you follow cooking times as they may vary.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting and hearty Fall Chili Chicken Mac Skillet as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to embrace the flavors of autumn while bringing family and friends together around the table. Don’t hesitate to add your own twist and make it your own! Happy cooking!