Baked Macaroni and Chicken Cheese Casserole with Broccoli Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dinner that brings together cheesy indulgence with nutritious ingredients, look no further than this Baked Macaroni and Chicken Cheese Casserole with Broccoli Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of tender chicken, tender-crisp broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and gooey baked macaroni all in one satisfying casserole. Each bite offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that feel like a warm hug on a plate, making it an ideal family-friendly meal that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to create a dish bursting with flavor and balanced with fresh veggies and protein. Every item plays a key role, from the golden sautéed chicken to the rich cheesy sauce with a hint of garlic and onion, and the broccoli that adds a vibrant touch both in color and nutrition.

• Olive oil: For perfectly searing the chicken to lock in juicy flavors.
• Skinless chicken breast or thigh fillets: Bite-sized pieces ensure every forkful has tender, meaty goodness.
• Butter: Adds richness to your creamy cheese sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic gives a subtle aromatic kick.
• Small onion: Finely chopped, it creates a flavorful base when sautéed.
• Plain flour: Helps thicken the luscious white sauce perfectly.
• Milk (low fat): Keeps the sauce creamy without being too heavy.
• Water: Balanced with milk to get the perfect sauce consistency.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best flavors.
• Black pepper: A fresh grind elevates the savory taste.
• Macaroni/elbow pasta: Classic bite-sized pasta that holds the sauce beautifully.
• Broccoli florets: Adds a pop of green and subtle crunch against creamy textures.
• Grated cheese (cheddar, tasty, or gruyere): Melts into gooey, flavorful goodness that ties it all together.
• Panko breadcrumbs: For a delightfully crisp topping that contrasts the creamy base.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish on top.

How to Make Baked Macaroni and Chicken Cheese Casserole with Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 180C/350F. This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and finishes with that golden, crispy topping everyone loves.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over high heat. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook just until they begin to brown but are not fully cooked through. This step locks in juices, leaving the chicken flavorful and tender after baking. Once done, transfer the chicken to a bowl temporarily.

Step 3: Create the Flavor Base

Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same pot. Add minced garlic and finely chopped onion, sautéing until the onion is translucent and softened – about five minutes. This fragrant base is where the magic starts, infusing your sauce with deep flavor.

Step 4: Make the White Sauce

Sprinkle in the flour and cook for one minute to remove its raw taste. Then, slowly whisk in half of the milk, letting the mixture thicken for around 30 seconds. Gradually add the rest of the milk along with the water, salt, and pepper, whisking constantly to achieve a smooth, creamy sauce without lumps.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Crank the heat up slightly and cook the sauce for 3 to 5 minutes, whisking occasionally until you see steam rising from the pot and the sauce has thickened. This stage is critical to get that body and richness that defines a great casserole sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Broccoli

Add the macaroni and partially cooked chicken into the sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly. Then, spread the broccoli florets on top without stirring them in completely — this helps them stay pleasantly tender and vibrant through baking.

Step 7: Bake Covered

Pop the lid on your pot or cover with foil, then bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Covered baking steams the broccoli and finishes cooking the chicken and pasta together for those harmonious flavors.

Step 8: Prepare for a Golden Topping

Remove the casserole from the oven and switch your oven setting to broil or grill on high – this will give you that irresistible crust you crave.

Step 9: Add Cheese and Toppings

Take off the lid and stir in the grated cheese, mixing it throughout for gooey pockets of cheesy goodness. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese evenly on top; even if it looks a little watery now, the toppings will crisp beautifully under the broiler.

Step 10: Broil to Crispy Perfection

Place the dish under the broiler/grill for about 5 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crunchy. Keep an eye on it; this step transforms the casserole into a textural delight.

Step 11: Rest Before Serving

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and settle, ensuring each serving is rich, creamy, and comforting.

How to Serve Baked Macaroni and Chicken Cheese Casserole with Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh, green note that brightens this cheesy casserole. For an extra zing, a light dusting of smoked paprika on top just before serving also works wonders to elevate the flavors visually and tastefully.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines as a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for balance. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls offer a satisfying option to mop up every last bit of the creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins and sprinkle the topping right before broiling. This not only makes for a charming presentation but also gives guests a personal crispy crust. Alternatively, you can add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra complexity and bursts of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Macaroni and Chicken Cheese Casserole with Broccoli Recipe keeps really well in the fridge for up to three days. Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover casserole in portions for up to two months. Use freezer-safe containers and allow it to cool completely before freezing. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350F (175C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat single portions in the microwave, but stir halfway to distribute heat evenly and retain the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works fine but be sure to thaw and drain any excess water to avoid a watery casserole. Adding it fresh if possible keeps a better texture.

What type of cheese is best for this Baked Macaroni and Chicken Cheese Casserole with Broccoli Recipe?

Cheddar, tasty, or Gruyere cheeses are all excellent choices. These melt beautifully and offer rich, sharp flavors that complement the other ingredients perfectly.

Is it necessary to cook the chicken before baking?

Yes, cooking the chicken briefly before baking ensures it’s safe to eat and tender. Since it finishes cooking in the oven, this method also prevents overcooking and dryness.

Can I use a different pasta instead of macaroni?

You can swap macaroni for other small pasta shapes like penne, shells, or rotini. Just make sure to adjust cooking times to keep pasta al dente and not mushy.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives. Choose a dairy-free cheese substitute for the topping, although the texture and flavor will differ slightly from the original.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Macaroni and Chicken Cheese Casserole with Broccoli Recipe is truly a winner for busy weeknights and cozy dinners alike. It combines simplicity, nutrition, and irresistible comfort food vibes into one delicious dish you and your loved ones will adore. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen rotation. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, wholesome casserole that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat!

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