Make sure the Cuisinart ice cream maker's freezer bowl has been completely frozen according to the machine's instructions before starting the recipe.
Place the chocolate chips in a mortar and gently crush them with a pestle until they are broken into small pieces.
Pour the half-and-half and heavy cream into a mixing bowl. Add the granulated sugar and beat with an electric mixer until the sugar is well incorporated and the mixture looks evenly blended.
Add the mint extract to the cream mixture and mix until evenly combined. Start with 1 teaspoon for a clear mint flavor.
Add a few drops of green food coloring to the mixture and stir until the color is evenly distributed. Add another drop or two if a stronger green color is wanted.
Pour the prepared ice cream mixture into the frozen Cuisinart ice cream maker bowl. Turn on the machine and let it churn according to the machine's normal ice cream cycle. Keep the machine running until the mixture becomes thick and reaches a soft-serve consistency.
When the ice cream has thickened, add the finely crushed or chopped chocolate chips. Let the machine churn briefly so the chocolate pieces are spread evenly throughout the ice cream.
Continue churning until the ice cream is thick and creamy. The finished mixture should hold its shape and look like soft-serve ice cream rather than a thin liquid. Once it reaches that stage, turn off the machine.
Serve the mint chocolate chip ice cream right away for a soft texture. For firmer scoops, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze until firm. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping if it becomes very hard.
