Mac And Cheddar Cheese With Chicken And Broccoli Recipe
If you're looking for a delicious and comforting meal, look no further than this mac and cheddar cheese with chicken and broccoli recipe. This hearty dish is perfect for those cold winter nights when you want something warm and filling. Plus, it's easy to make and can be customized to your liking.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, adding the broccoli florets during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Add the milk to the saucepan and whisk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture has thickened.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Whisk until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked chicken to the saucepan and stir to combine.
- Add the cooked macaroni and broccoli to the saucepan and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting mac and cheddar cheese with chicken and broccoli!
Customization Ideas
This recipe is easy to customize to your liking. Here are a few ideas:
- Swap out the chicken for cooked sausage, bacon, or ham.
- Add in some diced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, for a different flavor profile.
- Add in some breadcrumbs to the top of the dish for extra crunch.
Get creative and have fun with this recipe!