Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Macaroni Bake
Indulge in this creamy and satisfying Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Macaroni Bake, where tender elbow macaroni is enveloped in a savory blend of Velveeta and cheddar cheeses, complemented by fresh steamed broccoli and perfectly cooked chicken. This comforting dish is not only a delightful meal for the family but also a great way to sneak in some greens. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal preps, this dish will surely become a favorite at your table. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of extra cheddar on top for that gooey finish!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh broccoli florets
2 cups (steamed)
Butter or margarine
2 tablespoons (melted)
Shredded Velveeta cheese
8 ounces (shredded)
Milk
1 cup (none)
Cooked chopped chicken
2 cups (cooked and chopped)
Elbow macaroni
8 ounces (cooked)
Garlic clove
1 (minced)
Shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup (shredded)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, melt the butter (or margarine) over low heat.
2
Once melted, add the shredded Velveeta cheese, stirring frequently until it is fully melted and combined with the butter.
3
Stir the milk into the cheese mixture, ensuring that it's well-blended and creamy.
4
Incorporate the steamed broccoli, cooked chicken, elbow macaroni, and minced garlic into the skillet and stir to combine.
5
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and the mixture is bubbling.
6
For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the macaroni mixture in each serving dish before serving. Enjoy immediately!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Macaroni Bake?
It is a creamy and satisfying dish featuring elbow macaroni, Velveeta and cheddar cheeses, steamed broccoli, and cooked chicken.
How much broccoli is needed for this recipe?
You will need 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets, which should be steamed before adding to the mix.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for either 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine.
What kind of cheese is used for the base sauce?
The base sauce is made using 8 ounces of shredded Velveeta cheese.
How much milk should I add to the cheese mixture?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of milk to be stirred into the melted cheese.
Does the chicken need to be pre-cooked?
Yes, you should use 2 cups of cooked and chopped chicken.
What type of pasta is used in this bake?
The recipe uses 8 ounces of cooked elbow macaroni.
How much garlic is required?
One minced garlic clove is added to the mixture for flavor.
What is the recommended topping for this dish?
A sprinkle of 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese is recommended for a gooey finish.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to melt the butter or margarine in a large skillet over low heat.
How should I melt the Velveeta cheese?
Add the shredded Velveeta to the melted butter and stir frequently until it is fully combined.
When do I add the milk?
Stir the milk into the cheese mixture once the Velveeta has fully melted and combined with the butter.
At what point do I add the broccoli and chicken?
Incorporate the steamed broccoli and cooked chicken along with the macaroni and garlic after the milk is blended into the cheese.
What heat setting should I use for the final cooking stage?
Cook the combined mixture over medium heat.
How long should I cook the mixture on the skillet?
Cook until everything is heated through and the mixture begins bubbling.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is described as a great option for meal preps.
How should the dish be served?
Serve it hot, immediately after adding the extra cheddar cheese on top.
Can I add extra cheese to each serving?
Yes, you can sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each serving dish before eating.
Is this recipe considered a comfort food?
Yes, it is specifically tagged as a comfort food and a creamy casserole.
How many main ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients listed for this dish.
What is the best way to prepare the broccoli?
The recipe specifies using fresh broccoli florets that have been steamed.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, as long as it is cooked and chopped to equal 2 cups, it will work perfectly.
What size skillet should I use?
The instructions recommend using a large skillet.
Should the macaroni be cooked before adding it to the skillet?
Yes, the 8 ounces of elbow macaroni should be pre-cooked.
Is this a good meal for families?
Yes, it is described as a delightful meal for the family and a way to sneak in greens.
How do I ensure the cheese sauce is creamy?
By stirring frequently during the melting process and ensuring the milk is well-blended.
What gives the dish its savory flavor?
The combination of garlic, Velveeta, and cheddar cheese creates the savory blend.
Is the garlic fresh or powdered?
The recipe calls for one fresh garlic clove, minced.
Can I use different pasta shapes?
While elbow macaroni is specified, other small pasta shapes could likely be substituted.
What makes the finish 'gooey'?
Sprinkling extra shredded cheddar cheese on top of the hot mixture creates a gooey finish.