Description
A creamy and comforting mac and cheese dish loaded with tender chicken, broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
- Add the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine.
- Fold in the cooked macaroni and stir until everything is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with additional cheese or breadcrumbs.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep.
- Swap cheddar for your favorite melting cheese like Gouda or Monterey Jack.
- Add a crunchy topping by broiling with breadcrumbs for 3-5 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg