Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Mac

There are nights when everyone craves something creamy cheesy and truly comforting This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Mac always hits the spot and it comes together in just one pan for the easiest cleanup It is the kind of meal that everyone at my table goes back for seconds and the leftovers never last long

I came up with this on a weekday when everyone was hungry and I wanted something homemade but fast Now it is my go-to when I need to feed a crowd or just want to sneak in some extra veggies with zero complaints

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: cut into cubes this makes the dish hearty and lean always choose fresh or high quality chicken for the tastiest result
• Olive oil: helps brown the chicken and gives a nice base flavor use extra virgin for the best taste
• Onion: chopped brings sweetness and depth to the dish yellow or white onion works well
• Salt and pepper: basic seasoning to make all the other flavors pop use sea salt and fresh cracked black pepper if possible
• Paprika garlic powder onion powder: these spices give subtle warmth always check your spice jars for freshness for best results
• Ranch seasoning: adds a creamy tang and boosts flavor find a brand with real herbs listed high in the ingredients
• Chicken broth: the liquid that brings everything together opt for low sodium because the cheese adds plenty of saltiness
• Elbow pasta: uncooked the classic shape that holds sauce so well I use regular but you can sub in whole wheat or gluten free if needed
• Broccoli: chopped small enough to cook quickly but not so tiny that it disappears use crowns for a tender texture and vibrant color
• Colby Jack cheese: shredded rich gooey and melts beautifully always buy a block and shred for the best melt avoid pre-shredded when possible
• Milk: this gives an extra creamy finish whole or two percent is best
• Dried parsley: for a pop of color and herbal lift sprinkle right before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Ingredients:

Cut chicken into small cubes and chop broccoli into bite size pieces Make sure not to chop the broccoli too fine so it holds its shape while cooking

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high Add the cubed chicken and spread it evenly Let it begin to brown for about two minutes

Season and Sauté:

Add the chopped onion and season with salt pepper paprika garlic powder onion powder and ranch blend Stir well so the chicken and onions are coated Cook until the chicken is almost cooked through and onions start to soften

Add Pasta and Broth:

Pour in the uncooked elbow noodles chopped broccoli and three and a half cups of chicken broth Only add more broth if the pasta looks dry as it cooks

Cook Covered:

Bring the pan to a gentle boil then reduce heat to medium low Cover with a lid and cook for twelve to fifteen minutes Check and stir halfway to make sure the noodles are not sticking

Finish and Melt Cheese:

Once the pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed uncover and stir Let simmer for a few minutes to make sure any extra broth cooks off Add half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese and the milk Stir until smooth and melty

Top and Serve:

Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top Cover again for a few minutes or place under the broiler for a bubbly golden finish Garnish with dried parsley Serve hot and enjoy

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Colby Jack cheese is my favorite here because it melts so creamy and adds a sharp flavor I remember my daughter reaching for extra cheese to sprinkle on top the first time we made it The golden cheesy top is her signature touch now

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days If your mac looks a bit dry just splash in a bit of milk when reheating Warm slowly on the stove or microwave stirring after every minute to keep the cheese smooth

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap Colby Jack for cheddar or use Monterey Jack or even mozzarella for a stretchier melt For extra protein try stirring in some white beans or swap the chicken for rotisserie chicken to save time If you do not have ranch seasoning just use extra onion and garlic powder and a pinch of dill

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Serving Suggestions

This dish is complete on its own but I love adding a simple green salad on the side or some garlic bread for soaking up the cheese sauce It is also delicious with a little hot sauce for the adults at the table

Cultural Note

Mac and cheese is a classic in American kitchens but adding chicken and broccoli makes it a full meal that bridges comfort food with nutrition It is a family staple that always reminds me of potlucks and cozy Sunday dinners when we would all crowd around the stove waiting for the cheese to melt

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can swap in pre-cooked chicken. Add it when you combine the pasta and broccoli to heat through without drying out.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Colby Jack provides great melt and flavor, but cheddar or a blend of cheeses also work well for extra richness.

→ How do I keep broccoli from overcooking?

Chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces—not too small—and add it with the pasta so it stays vibrant yet tender.

→ Is this dish freezer friendly?

While possible, the texture of dairy and pasta may change. For best results, store leftovers in the fridge.

→ Can I make this meal gluten-free?

Absolutely—simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check the seasonings for hidden gluten.