1(8 ½ oz jar)sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped (drain oil but keep 2 tbsp)
¼cupall-purpose flour
2 ½cupswhole milk
1 ½cupslow-sodium chicken stock
8ozmacaroni
3cupskale, roughly chopped
1cupfreshly grated Parmesan cheese
1cupshredded sharp white cheddar cheese
½cupshredded mozzarella cheese
1tablespoonfresh Italian parsley, chopped
Instructions
Combine the paprika, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt and black pepper in small bowl and then season the chicken on all sides with it.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side, or until done. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let cool slightly before chopping into ½-inch cubes.
In same skillet, reduce heat to medium and the butter and 2 tablespoon of oil from sun-dried tomatoes. Add the onion and garlic and cook for about 4 minutes. Deglaze with the wine and cook for another 5 minutes until reduced. Add in the sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes.
Stir in flour and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until well combined. Gradually add milk and chicken stock and bring to a low simmer. Add in the macaroni and simmer until macaroni is al dente and sauce has thickened, about 9-10 minutes. You want to stir while it cooks.
Add the kale, stirring until it wilts. Remove from heat and stir in the cheeses and chicken and mix until combined. If mixture is too think, add milk ¼ cup at a time. Top with some fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Use quality dry white wine that you'd be willing to drink. The flavor of the sauce comes from the wine. Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay are best.
Always use freshly grated cheese. Never buy pre-shredded cheese as it contains wood pulp. Blocks of cheese are also cheaper.
If the pasta is soaking up the liquid too quickly, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
If you like to have cheese on top of your macaroni and cheese, place some top and broil for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling. Just make sure you are using an oven-safe skillet.