Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken is the ultimate comfort food mash-up—creamy, cheesy macaroni meets tender chicken and fresh broccoli for a satisfying, all-in-one meal. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The rich cheddar sauce ties everything together with indulgent goodness.

ingredients

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

elbow macaroni
boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
broccoli florets
sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
milk
heavy cream
unsalted butter
all-purpose flour
garlic powder
onion powder
salt
black pepper
olive oil

directions

Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Steam or blanch the broccoli until just tender. Set aside.

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until golden and cooked through, then dice or shred the chicken.

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

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until thickened and smooth.

Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and creamy.

Add the cooked macaroni, chicken, and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
Swap cheddar with a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or gouda.
Add a dash of hot sauce or Dijon mustard for a flavor kick.
Top with breadcrumbs and broil for a crispy finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture may change slightly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and drain well before adding.

What pasta shapes can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
Shells, penne, or rotini work great.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely—just omit the chicken or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with more milk, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken is a hearty, family-friendly dish that brings together comfort, flavor, and nutrition in every bite. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a go-to recipe for cozy dinners any night of the week.

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