Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken Recipe

This Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken is the cozy, creamy, and ultra-satisfying dinner you didn’t know you needed — until now. It’s a one-pan miracle packed with tender chunks of chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and a gloriously cheesy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together quickly and makes you feel like you’re eating something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Creamy and Cheesy: The sauce is rich, velvety, and packed with sharp cheddar flavor — just the way mac and cheese should be.
• Loaded with Protein and Veggies: You get the best of both worlds — tender chicken and broccoli in every bite, so it’s hearty and wholesome all in one bowl.
• Fast and Easy: This recipe is ready in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients and minimal prep. It’s a weeknight dream!
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup, more enjoyment. Everything cooks together in one pot for maximum flavor and convenience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this cheesy bowl of comfort — no fancy ingredients required.

• Chicken: Use cooked, shredded chicken breast or rotisserie chicken for ease and great flavor. Thighs work too if you prefer a juicier bite.
• Pasta: Elbow macaroni is the classic pick here, but shells or cavatappi also hold the sauce beautifully.
• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are best, but frozen can work in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain well.
• Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar — it melts beautifully and gives the dish its bold, cheesy backbone.
• Milk: Whole milk is ideal for a richer sauce, but 2% works too. Avoid skim as it can make the sauce watery.
• Butter and Flour: For a quick roux that forms the base of that luscious cheese sauce.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Just a pinch of each boosts the savory depth without overpowering the cheese.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste, especially since cheese can already be salty — taste before adding more.

Variations

Make this recipe your own with these easy swaps and additions:

• Spicy Version: Add a dash of cayenne or a few chopped jalapeños for heat lovers.
• Bacon Boost: Stir in crispy bacon bits for a smoky crunch that pairs beautifully with cheddar.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for cauliflower florets or a chickpea-based pasta.
• Different Cheeses: Mix in mozzarella for extra meltiness or a touch of parmesan for salty depth.
• Veggie Overload: Add peas, spinach, or diced bell peppers to amp up the vegetable content.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook for a few minutes less than package instructions. In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Cheese

Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Fold in the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated and the chicken is warmed through.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Dish it out while it’s hot and gooey. Garnish with extra cheese or fresh parsley if you like!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheddar makes a big difference.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: You want it tender, not mushy. Add it at the end of pasta cooking time to keep it vibrant and slightly crisp.
• Warm the Milk: Adding cold milk to the roux can slow down the sauce thickening. Room temperature or warm milk blends more smoothly.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce gets too thick, stir in a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a minute longer.

How to Serve

This dish is hearty enough to shine on its own, but here are some tasty serving ideas:

With a Side Salad

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese sauce perfectly.

With Garlic Bread

Warm, crusty garlic bread makes the ultimate scoop for all that creamy cheese.

As a Casserole

Pour it into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs or more cheese, and broil for a bubbly, golden crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier!

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but note that the cheese sauce may slightly separate when reheated. For best results, freeze in individual portions and wrap well.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to keep it creamy.

FAQs

Can I make this without chicken?
Absolutely! Just leave it out or swap in more veggies like mushrooms or peas for a vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works fine — just make sure to thaw and pat it dry so it doesn’t water down the sauce.

What’s the best pasta for mac and cheese?
Elbow macaroni is classic, but small shapes like shells, rotini, or cavatappi are also great at holding onto the sauce.

How can I make it lighter?
Use reduced-fat cheese and milk, and add extra veggies like spinach or cauliflower to lighten up the dish without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken is comfort food done right — creamy, cheesy, satisfying, and sneakily packed with protein and veggies. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want something soul-soothing after a long day, this recipe delivers every single time. Give it a try and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your weeknight rotation!

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