Chicken Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon
This ultra-comforting mac and cheese is loaded with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and bright broccoli, all wrapped up in a creamy, homemade cheese sauce. It’s a weeknight dinner winner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl — easy enough for busy nights, indulgent enough for seconds.
Ingredients
- 12 oz short pasta elbows, shells, penne
- 3 cups broccoli florets chopped
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon chopped
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs diced
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese optional, for extra creaminess
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions, adding broccoli florets during the last 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Season diced chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In the same skillet with a bit of bacon fat, cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same skillet. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and broth. Cook, stirring, until thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
- Reduce heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Add cooked pasta, broccoli, chicken, and bacon into the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Serve hot.
Notes
For a crispy finish, transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden.
Nutrition
Calories: 620kcal
Love this recipe?Fllow us at @TasteofRecipes for more