Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken is a comforting, hearty dish that combines creamy cheddar cheese, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli with classic macaroni. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep and brings together a medley of textures and flavors in every bite. A family favorite that balances indulgence with wholesome ingredients.

ingredients

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

elbow macaroni
boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cooked and diced or shredded)
fresh broccoli florets
unsalted butter
all-purpose flour
whole milk
heavy cream
sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
Parmesan cheese (grated)
garlic powder
onion powder
salt
black pepper
paprika (optional for topping)

directions

Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.

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

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Simmer until thickened.

Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Reduce the heat and mix in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan until melted and smooth.

Add the cooked chicken, macaroni, and broccoli into the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined.

Optional: Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese and paprika on top, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Optional broiling time: 3 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Swap in cauliflower or spinach for a veggie twist.
Add a dash of hot sauce or Dijon mustard to the cheese sauce for added depth.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and flour.
Top with breadcrumbs and bake for a crispy finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, thaw and drain it well before adding it to the pasta.

What type of cheese melts best?

Sharp cheddar offers great flavor and meltability, but you can mix in mozzarella or gouda for extra creaminess.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything and refrigerate. Reheat when ready to serve, adding a bit of milk if needed.

Is it kid-friendly?

Absolutely! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor kids love.

Can I skip the chicken?

Sure, for a vegetarian version, just leave it out or add more broccoli or another veggie.

Can I bake the whole thing?

Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes with a breadcrumb or cheese topping for a golden crust.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken is the ultimate comfort food made even better with protein and greens. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s a satisfying meal that checks all the boxes for taste, nutrition, and ease. Ideal for families, leftovers, or entertaining, this dish is a reliable go-to for any occasion.