Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken is the ultimate comfort food mashup. Creamy, cheesy pasta gets a wholesome boost from tender broccoli and hearty chunks of seasoned chicken. It’s a one-pan meal that’s kid-friendly, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Rich in flavor and texture, this dish offers a delicious way to sneak in some veggies without compromising on taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)broccoli floretscooked chicken breast (diced or shredded)sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)milkbutterflourgarlic powderonion powdersaltblack pepperpaprika (optional for extra flavor)Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, adding broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.

Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika if using.

Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine evenly.

Transfer to a baking dish if desired, and top with extra cheese or Parmesan.

Broil for 2-3 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly, or serve straight from the stovetop.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.

Swap cheddar for a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère.

Add a dash of hot sauce or mustard for a tangy kick.

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.

Stir in sautéed onions or mushrooms for an earthy depth.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.Freezing is not recommended as the cheese sauce may separate.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw and drain before adding to the pasta.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate before baking. Bake until heated through when ready to serve.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for added creaminess.

Can I make this without chicken?

Absolutely, it still tastes amazing as a vegetarian dish.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, unsweetened almond or oat milk works well, but choose one without added flavors.

How do I keep the cheese sauce from clumping?

Whisk constantly while adding milk and stir cheese in gradually off the heat if needed.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and has fewer additives.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, as freezing may alter the texture of the cheese sauce.

Can I bake the whole dish?

Yes, baking adds a crispy top layer—just sprinkle with extra cheese and broil or bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.

Is this kid-approved?

Definitely! The creamy cheese and hidden veggies make it a family favorite.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken is the kind of dish that checks all the boxes: creamy, cheesy, filling, and comforting. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is an easy, delicious way to bring everyone to the table. Give it a try and watch it become a regular on your menu.