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The Bistro's mac 'n' cheese with grilled chicken

Time 50 minutes
Yields Serves 8 to 10
The Bistro's mac 'n' cheese with grilled chicken
(Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times)
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Macaroni base

1

In a large pot of salted, boiling water, cook the pasta to al dente according to the package instructions, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2

Heat a medium, heavy-bottom pot over medium-high heat until hot. Saute the shallots in the olive oil until lightly colored, then add the heavy cream. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and reduce by half, 8 to 10 minutes.

3

Whisk in the crumbled cheese until melted and incorporated, then stir in the pasta.

4

Remove from heat and reserve the base, still in the pan, in a warm place.

Chicken

1

Drizzle the chicken breasts with the olive oil, and season each side of each breast with a pinch each of salt and pepper. Sprinkle over the chopped parsley and rosemary. Grill the chicken over moderate heat until the flesh is firm and the juices run clear, and a thermometer inserted reads 165 degrees. Remove from heat, cover and keep warm until needed.

Mac 'n' cheese assembly

1

In a medium saute pan, cook the pancetta in the oil over medium-high heat until crisp, 5 to 7 minutes

2

Strain the pancetta, leaving any fat in the pan.

3

Heat the pan with the fat over medium-high heat and sprinkle over the bread crumbs.

4

Saute the bread crumbs until darkened and toasted, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and drain the bread crumbs on a paper towel.

5

Heat the macaroni base over medium heat until hot, stirring frequently. While the base is heating, slice the chicken into strips.

6

Stir the chicken into the base, then stir in the crisp pancetta, parsley and white truffle oil, tossing to coat.

7

Divide the mac ‘n’ cheese among 4 serving bowls and top with the crisp bread crumbs. Serve immediately.

Adapted from the Bistro at Four Points by Sheraton Bakersfield.