This Creamy Macaroni and Cheese with Chicken and Broccoli one pot wonder is a family friendly meal that combines macaroni, chicken, and healthy broccoli florets in a zippy cheese sauce. This recipe makes great use of leftover cooked chicken, or you can take a shortcut and use the roasted whole chicken from the deli of your favourite supermarket.
In a large Dutch oven or cast iron skillet (4-6 quarts), whisk together the milk, water, cream, mustard, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then quickly stir in the pasta and broccoli.
Cover the pot and carefully transfer it to the oven. Bake for 10 minutes, remove the pot from the oven and stir in the chicken. Bake, uncovered for another 7-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, but it’s ok if it looks a little saucy. It thickens as it cools. Just be mindful to not overcook the pasta. The sauce will look a little curdled and this is normal. But don’t worry, it all comes together in a creamy sauce at the end.
Remove the pot from the oven, and add the butter. Stir in the cheese, about 1 cup at a time. Stir until all of the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. You may need to add a bit more milk if it’s too thick. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve immediately.
Servings: 4-6
Serving Size 1 3/4 cups
Servings 0
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.