Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken is the ultimate comfort food mash-up. Creamy, cheesy macaroni blends perfectly with tender chicken pieces and fresh broccoli florets for a hearty, balanced dish. It’s filling, family-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends at home.

ingredients

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

macaroni pasta
cooked chicken breast (diced or shredded)
broccoli florets
cheddar cheese (shredded)
milk
heavy cream
butter
all-purpose flour
garlic powder
onion powder
salt
black pepper
paprika (optional for added depth)
grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra richness)

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets in the last 2-3 minutes of boiling. Drain and set aside.

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes.

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Cook until the sauce begins to thicken.

Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well.

Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.

Stir in the cooked chicken, drained pasta, and broccoli. Mix until everything is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.

Top with grated Parmesan if using, and let it melt into the mixture before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
Swap cheddar for a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère.
Add a crunchy breadcrumb topping and broil for a few minutes.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
Include sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just steam or microwave it first before adding to the pasta.

What’s the best chicken to use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and diced or shredded, work best.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the chicken or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

How do I make it spicier?
Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

Can I bake this mac and cheese?
Yes, transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and cheese, then bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare everything, refrigerate, and reheat before serving. Add a splash of milk when reheating.

What kind of cheese melts best?
Sharp cheddar gives great flavor and melts well, but combining with a smoother cheese like mozzarella enhances creaminess.

Is it kid-friendly?
Definitely—a great way to sneak in veggies and protein in a delicious format.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken brings the best of creamy comfort food with added nutrition from chicken and broccoli. It’s easy to make, satisfying to eat, and perfect for both casual meals and hearty family dinners. Give it a try and enjoy a cheesy classic with a wholesome twist!