Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce all in one pot. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal. Plus, cooking it in a crockpot makes it super easy!
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Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic option for those looking for quick, simple meals that don’t skimp on flavor. The crockpot does all the work for you, allowing the chicken to become tender and the flavors to blend beautifully. It’s also a great way to sneak in some veggies with the broccoli, making it a well-rounded dish that both kids and adults will love.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 5 cups Fresh broccoli florets
- 8 ounces Shell pasta or elbow macaroni
- 8 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces Cream cheese
- 1.5 cups Whole milk
- 0.5 cup Chicken broth
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Dry mustard powder
Directions
- Lightly spray your crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add the cubed chicken, broccoli florets, Ranch seasoning, chicken broth, and minced garlic to the crockpot. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is fork-tender.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for just 3 minutes—it should still be quite firm. Drain well.
- Add the partially cooked pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, whole milk, and dry mustard powder to the crockpot with the chicken and broccoli.
- Stir everything together until combined and the cheeses begin to melt into the sauce.
- Cover and continue cooking on low for one additional hour, stirring once or twice, until the cheese is completely melted and the pasta is tender and deliciously creamy.
- Spoon the Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli Mac and Cheese into bowls and serve immediately for maximum comfort and flavor!
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli Mac and Cheese
This dish is best served warm, directly from the crockpot. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. It’s a filling meal that doesn’t need much else on the side.
How to Store Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli Mac and Cheese
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Tips to Make Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli Mac and Cheese
- Make sure to cut the chicken into small, even cubes for even cooking.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Variation
You can swap out the cheddar cheese for other types like mozzarella or pepper jack if you want a different flavor. Additionally, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just add it directly to the crockpot. It may cook slightly faster, so keep an eye on it.
2. Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
You can use whole-grain pasta for added fiber and replace the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and then cook it in the crockpot the next day. Just remember to adjust your cooking time accordingly if the ingredients are cold.
Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli Mac and Cheese!
Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 5 cups Fresh broccoli florets
- 8 ounces Shell pasta or elbow macaroni Cook only for 3 minutes
- 8 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces Cream cheese
- 1.5 cups Whole milk
- 0.5 cup Chicken broth
Seasoning
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Dry mustard powder
Instructions
Preparation
- Lightly spray your crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add the cubed chicken, broccoli florets, Ranch seasoning, chicken broth, and minced garlic to the crockpot. Stir gently to combine.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is fork-tender.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for just 3 minutes—it should still be quite firm. Drain well.
- Add the partially cooked pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, whole milk, and dry mustard powder to the crockpot with the chicken and broccoli.
- Stir everything together until combined and the cheeses begin to melt into the sauce.
- Cover and continue cooking on low for one additional hour, stirring once or twice, until the cheese is completely melted and the pasta is tender and creamy.
Serving
- Spoon the Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli Mac and Cheese into bowls and serve immediately for maximum comfort and flavor!
