Baked Chicken and Broccoli Mac
If you're craving comfort food with a healthy twist, this Baked Chicken and Broccoli Mac is a perfect pick! Combining tender chicken, nutrient-packed broccoli, and creamy mac and cheese, this dish delivers all the cozy vibes without the guilt. It's an easy, family-friendly recipe that balances indulgence and nutrition—ideal for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner!
Just a side note: this makes enough for my boyfriend and I for 3 days so 6 servings in total
Ingredients
3 cups
macaroni, 13 oz total
1 bunch
broccoli, cut into florets
½ tbsp
olive oil
2
chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (14 oz total)
½ stick
butter
1
yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves
garlic, minced
¼ cup
flour
2 cups
1% milk
1 cup
chicken broth
1 tsp
salt
black pepper
1½ cups
shredded cheddar
¼ cup
panko bread crumbs
2 tbsp
grated parmesan
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375F.
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and broccoli. Cook 2 minutes less than package directions for macaroni, or until just under al dente, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat, drain, and place in a 9x13 baking dish.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Transfer out of pan and place in baking dish.
Heat butter in a pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
Add garlic and cook until fragrant, stirring occasionally, about 30 seconds.
Add flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
Add milk and stir to combine. Simmer until thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
Add broth and season to taste with salt and pepper. Simmer until slightly thick, about 3-5 minutes.
Remove from heat and add cheddar in batches. Stir to combine until melted and smooth.
Pour sauce into baking dish and stir to combine. Top with panko and parmesan and bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes.
