Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Macaroni recipe! Combining tender elbow macaroni, juicy diced chicken breast, and fresh broccoli florets, this easy one-pan dish is smothered in a creamy, homemade cheese sauce featuring sharp cheddar and Parmesan. Perfectly seasoned with garlic powder and paprika, every bite delivers a rich, velvety flavor thatβs sure to satisfy. Ready in just 40 minutes, this hearty casserole-style meal is ideal for busy weeknights and packs plenty of protein and vegetables for a well-rounded dish. Serve it piping hot with a sprinkle of parsley or extra cheese for an irresistible family favorite. Keywords: cheesy chicken broccoli macaroni, comfort food, macaroni and cheese, easy one-pan meals, 30-minute dinner recipes.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until fully cooked and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in the garlic powder, paprika, and additional salt and pepper to taste.
Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked macaroni, chicken, and broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the broccoli to become tender and heated through.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese or freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Calories |
3301 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 152.2 g | 195% | |
| Saturated Fat | 82.0 g | 410% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 797 mg | 266% | |
| Sodium | 5706 mg | 248% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 209.8 g | 76% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.9 g | 46% | |
| Total Sugars | 34.0 g | ||
| Protein | 268.9 g | 538% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.5 mcg | 33% | |
| Calcium | 2829 mg | 218% | |
| Iron | 14.0 mg | 78% | |
| Potassium | 2321 mg | 49% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.