why make this recipe
Creamy Broccoli Chicken Mac and Cheese is a wonderful dish that combines comfort food with healthy ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, filling, and delicious. The creamy cheese sauce wraps around the macaroni, chicken, and broccoli, making it a tasty meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your dinner!
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
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking. Cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in cream cheese until melted.
- Mix in cheddar cheese until fully melted.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet, cook chicken until golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add broccoli to the skillet and sauté until tender.
- Combine macaroni, chicken, and broccoli with the cheese sauce.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with extra cheddar cheese if desired and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Let it rest before serving.
how to serve Creamy Broccoli Chicken Mac and Cheese
Serve this dish hot straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a bit of extra cheese or some fresh herbs on top before serving.
how to store Creamy Broccoli Chicken Mac and Cheese
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may want to add a splash of milk to help regain some creaminess.
tips to make Creamy Broccoli Chicken Mac and Cheese
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- For a crunchier topping, consider adding breadcrumbs mixed with some melted butter before baking.
variation
You can customize this recipe by using different types of cheese such as mozzarella or gouda. If you want a smoky flavor, try adding some cooked bacon or smoked chicken.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready.
What can I use instead of chicken?
You can use cooked ground turkey, sausage, or skip the meat altogether and add more veggies if you prefer a vegetarian dish.
Can I freeze Creamy Broccoli Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Just let it cool, then store it in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until hot.