Comfort Food Faceoff: Devour Chicken Cordon Bleu Mac and Cheese vs. Homemade Chicken Cordon Bleu Mac and Cheese
Comfort food often takes us back to warm, nostalgic moments, and nothing embodies this more than a hearty dish of Chicken Cordon Bleu Mac and Cheese. Today, we're comparing the popular Devour Chicken Cordon Bleu Mac and Cheese with a homemade version. We'll delve into taste, texture, nutritional value, and cost, and I'll share a delicious homemade recipe for you to try.
Devour Chicken Cordon Bleu Mac and Cheese: The Ready-Made Choice
Taste and Texture: Devour Chicken Cordon Bleu Mac and Cheese combines tender white meat chicken, diced ham, and rich Swiss and cheddar cheese sauce over macaroni pasta. The flavors meld well, offering a creamy, savory experience with the salty kick of ham. However, the texture can sometimes be inconsistent, with the pasta occasionally becoming mushy and the cheese sauce a bit too thick or oily after microwaving.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 450
Total Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 1220mg
Total Carbohydrates: 39g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 25g
Devour’s version is quite calorie-dense and high in fat and sodium, making it a less ideal choice for those watching their intake. The protein content is substantial, but the high levels of cholesterol and sodium are notable.
Homemade Chicken Cordon Bleu Mac and Cheese: The Fresh Alternative
Homemade Recipe:
Ingredients:
2 cups macaroni pasta
1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
1/2 cup diced ham
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta: Boil the macaroni pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking until smooth. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Cheese and Seasoning: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded Swiss and cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth. Add the Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, diced chicken, and ham to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
Prepare the Topping: In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and toast until golden brown.
Assemble the Dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Bake (Optional): For a crispy top, bake the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the mac and cheese cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 480
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 44g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 28g
The homemade version is slightly higher in calories but significantly lower in sodium compared to the Devour option. It also allows for better control over the quality of ingredients and the ability to customize the recipe to suit your preferences.
The Verdict
Taste and Texture: Devour Chicken Cordon Bleu Mac and Cheese provides a convenient and tasty option but may lack the fresh, creamy texture of a homemade dish. The homemade version shines with its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and the delightful crunch of toasted breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Value: While both options are indulgent, the homemade version offers better control over ingredients, resulting in a dish that is lower in sodium and can be tailored to be healthier with whole grain pasta or reduced-fat cheese.
Cost: Devour offers convenience at a relatively low cost, but making a homemade version can be more economical in the long run, especially when considering the quality of ingredients and potential for leftovers.
Convenience: Devour wins hands down for convenience, requiring just a few minutes in the microwave. The homemade version takes more time and effort but rewards with superior taste, texture, and nutritional benefits.
In conclusion, if you’re pressed for time, Devour Chicken Cordon Bleu Mac and Cheese is a satisfactory choice. However, if you can spare some extra time, the homemade variant offers a more flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying meal. Try the recipe above and taste the difference for yourself!
