Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken is the ultimate comfort food mashup. It combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy cheddar sauce into one satisfying dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe delivers rich flavor and hearty texture in every bite.

ingredients

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

elbow macaroni
cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
broccoli florets
sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
milk
heavy cream
butter
all-purpose flour
garlic powder
onion powder
salt
black pepper
paprika (optional for a smoky touch)

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Add broccoli florets during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.

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

Lower the heat and gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth and melted.

Fold in the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken. Stir to coat everything evenly in the cheese sauce.

Cook on low heat for 2-3 more minutes until everything is heated through.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken for rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey for convenience.
Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky crunch.
Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for extra depth.
Spice it up with a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
You can also freeze for up to 2 months, though the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just steam or microwave it first before adding to the pasta.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar melts well and gives a bold flavor, but mild cheddar or a blend can also work.

Do I have to use heavy cream?

You can substitute with all milk, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, just omit the chicken and increase the broccoli or add other veggies like peas or mushrooms.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The cheesy pasta and mild flavors make it a hit with kids.

Can I bake this after mixing?

Yes, transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chicken is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the best of cheesy pasta, protein-packed chicken, and fresh broccoli. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this creamy and delicious recipe is a winner every time.