Creamy Broccoli Chicken Mac and Cheese

why make this recipe

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that brings together the goodness of chicken, broccoli, and creamy cheese. It’s a perfect meal for families, providing a tasty way to sneak in some vegetables while enjoying a classic favorite. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish is sure to be a hit for both kids and adults alike.

how to make Creamy Broccoli Chicken Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Elbow Macaroni (Cooked al dente.)
• 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (Cut into bite-sized pieces.)
• 2 cups Fresh Broccoli Florets (Blanched briefly.)
• 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (For a robust flavor.)
• 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Adds creaminess to the sauce.)
• 1 cup Whole Milk (For a smooth sauce.)
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (For the roux.)
• ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour (To thicken the sauce.)
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (For flavor enhancement.)
• Salt and Pepper (To taste.)

Directions:

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Gradually pour in milk while whisking. Cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Stir in cream cheese until melted.
5. Mix in cheddar cheese until fully melted.
6. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
7. In a skillet, cook chicken until golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Add broccoli to the skillet and sauté until tender.
9. Combine macaroni, chicken, and broccoli with the cheese sauce.
10. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
11. Top with extra cheddar cheese if desired and bake for 20-25 minutes.
12. Let it rest before serving.

how to serve Creamy Broccoli Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serve this dish hot, straight from the oven. You can dish it up in bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs, if you like. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends and family.

how to store Creamy Broccoli Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you have leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool down. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until it’s warmed through.

tips to make Creamy Broccoli Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Make sure not to overcook the macaroni; it should be firm as it will bake further in the oven.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or carrots for additional flavor and nutrition.
• If you prefer a bit of crunch, you can top it with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.

variation

You can make this dish with turkey or shrimp instead of chicken. Additionally, try using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or gouda, for a twist on flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to eat.

2. Is there a gluten-free option for the macaroni?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta in place of elbow macaroni.

3. Can I freeze Creamy Broccoli Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat.

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Mac and Cheese

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A comforting dish combining chicken, broccoli, and creamy cheese, ideal for families.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

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• 2 cups Elbow Macaroni (Cooked al dente)
• 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (Cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 cups Fresh Broccoli Florets (Blanched briefly)
• 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• 8 ounces Cream Cheese
• 1 cup Whole Milk
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Gradually pour in milk while whisking. Cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Stir in cream cheese until melted.
5. Mix in cheddar cheese until fully melted.
6. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
7. In a skillet, cook chicken until golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Add broccoli to the skillet and sauté until tender.
9. Combine macaroni, chicken, and broccoli with the cheese sauce.
10. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
11. Top with extra cheddar cheese if desired and bake for 20-25 minutes.
12. Let it rest before serving.

Notes

For a twist, you can substitute turkey or shrimp for chicken and use different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda.

• Author: nevaeh-hall
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Pescatarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 70mg