Name: Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lb chicken breast; Olive oil, for drizzling; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/8 tsp pepper; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 8-10 oz dry pasta (such as elbow macaroni or shells); 3 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli); 6 oz Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes; 5 oz medium cheddar cheese, grated using the small grate side; 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, grated; 2 cups whole milk, plus more if needed; 1/4 tsp pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 25 reviews

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If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly blends tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and cheesy, creamy pasta into one satisfying dish that’s both wholesome and indulgent. The medley of velvety Velveeta, sharp cheddar, and nutty Parmigiano Reggiano creates a luscious sauce that clings to every bite of pasta, while the roasted chicken adds a juicy protein punch. Whether you’re cooking for one or making a family feast, this recipe is a simple, flavorful delight that turns an everyday classic into something extra special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round silver metal pot filled with several pieces of fresh green broccoli. The broccoli pieces have dark green tops and lighter green stems, some pieces showing a bright yellowish green near the top. The pot has two handles on each side and rests on a white marbled surface. The photo is taken from above, showing the broccoli arranged loosely inside the pot photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each element plays a crucial role: the chicken brings hearty protein, the broccoli adds a pop of fresh color and crunch, and the blend of cheeses creates that irresistible creamy sauce.

1 1/2 lb chicken breast: Tender and juicy, it’s the dish’s main protein and pairs beautifully with the cheesy base.
8-10 oz dry pasta: Your choice of pasta works here; it’s the vehicle for the luscious sauce and creates great texture.
3 cups broccoli florets: Adds freshness, color, and a healthy crunch that balances the richness.
6 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed: Melts smoothly for that dreamy, gooey texture in the sauce.
5 oz medium cheddar, grated: Brings sharpness and depth to complement the creamy Velveeta.
1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, grated: Adds a subtle nutty complexity to the cheese flavor.
2 cups whole milk: The creamy base that ties all the cheese together; add more if the sauce gets too thick.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds a light kick that enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
Olive oil: Used to roast the chicken, infusing it with a mild fruity richness.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and seasoning the pasta water.
1/8 teaspoon pepper: Additional seasoning for the chicken to keep the flavor balanced.
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a subtle savory undertone that elevates the entire dish.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a touch of sweetness and depth in the chicken seasoning.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the chicken breasts on a lined baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, and generously season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Roast the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes until cooked through. Once out of the oven, shred it finely with two forks. This step is key—seasoning and roasting the chicken well infuses so much flavor, turning plain meat into tender, flavor-packed bites ready to mingle with the pasta and sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until just tender. About 4 minutes before the pasta is done, toss in the broccoli florets so they blanch and stay vibrant green with a nice crunch. This technique ensures the broccoli cooks perfectly without getting soggy, adding texture and a fresh burst of flavor to your mac and cheese.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Drain the pasta and broccoli, then return the pot to low heat. Pour in the whole milk and gently warm it up. Gradually stir in the Velveeta cubes, whisking until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes silky smooth. Next, gradually whisk in the grated cheddar and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese bit by bit, ensuring the sauce stays lump-free and glossy. This slow incorporation of cheeses is crucial—it builds layers of flavor and a perfectly creamy consistency that will coat every noodle beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the sauce is smooth, fold in the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, and broccoli. Stir everything gently to combine without breaking up the broccoli or the chicken too much. Turn off the heat and let the dish cool slightly—the sauce will thicken as it rests, creating that classic, creamy mac and cheese texture we all love. This fusion of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and cheesy pasta is what makes this Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe an absolute crowd-pleaser.

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

A close-up view of a creamy pasta dish in a white pot with purple handles, featuring three main layers: light yellow orecchiette pasta shells thickly coated in a glossy, creamy white sauce with hints of green herbs; shredded pieces of light brown chicken mixed throughout; and small bright green broccoli florets evenly spread, adding a pop of color. The dish is sprinkled lightly with black pepper and red pepper flakes, and a wooden spoon is resting on the side, partially covered by the pasta. The pot is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra grated Parmigiano Reggiano or freshly cracked black pepper on top right before serving to add an elegant finishing touch. For a pop of color and a hint of freshness, chopped parsley or chives work beautifully too. These simple garnishes elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, making the meal feel even more special.

Side Dishes

While the Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe is a hearty dish on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread can balance the richness perfectly. A light vinaigrette salad cuts through the creaminess, and warm, toasty bread offers a delightful crunch and a satisfying way to scoop up any leftover cheesy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Serve this mac and cheese in individual oven-safe ramekins and broil the top with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and cheddar until golden and crispy. This adds a lovely texture contrast and makes for a beautiful presentation at any dinner table. Alternatively, try stuffing this cheesy goodness into bell peppers or baking it alongside caramelized onions for a twist on a classic comfort food.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, though the sauce may thicken—just reheat gently with a bit of milk to bring it back to creamy perfection.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Be sure to add a splash of milk during reheating to restore the sauce’s creamy texture that can firm up after freezing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring frequently. Adding a little milk or cream while warming helps revive the sauce’s smooth consistency. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from separating, ensuring every bite remains perfectly creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While classic elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use shells, penne, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time as needed and make sure your pasta is al dente before mixing with the cheese sauce for the best texture.

Is it necessary to use Velveeta cheese?

Velveeta provides that signature, ultra-smooth melt which makes the sauce creamy and luscious. You can substitute with processed cheese or increase the cheddar for a sharper flavor, but Velveeta is key to achieving the ideal silky texture in this Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe.

Can I add other vegetables besides broccoli?

Definitely! Cauliflower florets, peas, or even roasted red peppers can make great additions or substitutions, adding unique flavors and textures. Just be mindful of cooking times so the veggies stay tender but crisp.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

This recipe centers on cheese and milk, so adapting it for dairy-free or vegan diets requires substitutions like plant-based milk and cheese alternatives. You may also swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas to keep the protein element while catering to dietary needs.

Can I make this recipe in advance and bake it later?

Yes! You can assemble the pasta, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce, then store it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and bubbly. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top before baking creates a delightful golden crust.

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe feels like sharing a cozy story with your kitchen—simple ingredients coming together to create pure joy. It’s comfort food with a fresh twist, perfect for weeknights or anytime you want to treat yourself. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience why this dish has quickly become one of my all-time favorites. Get cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!

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