Cheesy Chicken With Broccoli
Creamy cheesy chicken and broccoli dish with tender pasta, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining savory flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a large skillet with nonstick spray.
- Add the chicken and cook over medium heat until lightly browned.
- Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the macaroni and reduce heat to a medium boil.
- Cover with a lid and let simmer for 10 minutes or until macaroni is tender.
- Add the broccoli and Velveeta cheese cubes.
- Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with garlic powder or Italian herbs while cooking. If you don’t have Velveeta, a mix of cheddar and cream cheese can create a similar creamy texture. You can also substitute fresh broccoli for frozen if you prefer a crunchier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side salad or crusty bread to balance the richness. It pairs beautifully with Brian'S Broccoli Casserole for a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, consider adding a light dessert like fruit salad or yogurt.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cheesy Chicken With Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the dish creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Chicken With Broccoli contains roughly 161 calories, with 10g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 794mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can use various cheeses, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a different flavor profile. However, using a cheese that melts well, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, will ensure a creamy consistency.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, you can use whole wheat macaroni and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach. You can also reduce the amount of cheese and use low-sodium chicken broth to cut down on salt and calories.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and cook the macaroni in advance. Assemble everything and store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).