Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a comforting and creamy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This delightful meal combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and cheesy pasta all cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful & Creamy: The combination of cheddar and cream cheese creates a rich, cheesy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta.
• Healthy Veggie Boost: With fresh broccoli florets, this dish adds a nutritious element that’s often missing in mac and cheese recipes.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it an instant hit at any dinner table.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, from different types of cheese to veggies.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the right tools on hand. These essential kitchen tools will help streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Cooking spray
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Mixing spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: Perfect for hands-off cooking; just set it and forget it!
• Cooking spray: Prevents food from sticking to the crockpot for easier cleanup.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures your pasta is cooked just right before adding it to the crockpot.
• Mixing spoon: Essential for combining ingredients evenly.

Ingredients

This is an easy and delicious dinner recipe!

For the Chicken Mixture

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 1 packet of Ranch seasoning
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 5 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 tbsp minced garlic

For the Pasta & Cheese Sauce

• 8 oz of shell pasta or elbow macaroni noodles
• 1 1/2 cups of whole milk
• 8 oz cheddar cheese shredded
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1 tsp dry mustard seasoning

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

1. Cut the chicken into cubes.
2. Spray a crockpot with cooking spray.
3. Add chicken, Ranch seasoning, chicken broth, minced garlic, and broccoli to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Cover and cook on low for about 3-4 hours or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta

1. In a separate pot, boil water.
2. Add shell pasta or elbow macaroni noodles.
3. Boil for about 3 minutes; drain when done. This parboiling step prevents overcooking in the crockpot.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

1. In the crockpot, add the parboiled pasta.
2. Pour in whole milk, shredded cheddar cheese, dry mustard seasoning, and cream cheese.
3. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Final Cooking Phase

1. Cover again and cook on low for about an hour.
2. Stir at least a few times during this hour to ensure even cooking.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese!

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve directly from the crockpot for a relaxed family meal. Guests can help themselves to a hearty scoop.

Individual Bowls

• Portion out into individual bowls for a more formal setting. Top with extra cheese or fresh herbs for added flair.

Garnished with Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top before serving to add color and freshness.

With Crunchy Toppings

• Add crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac and cheese.

How to Perfect Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

To ensure your Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli will retain its vibrant color and nutrients better than frozen varieties.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Parboiling the pasta for just 3 minutes keeps it from becoming mushy in the slow cooker.
• Stir occasionally: Giving everything a stir during cooking helps combine flavors and ensures even heating.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving, as flavor can vary based on ingredients; adjust salt or pepper as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Complement your cheesy dish with some delicious side options that balance flavors nicely. Here are some great ideas:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that adds a crunchy texture and buttery flavor to your meal.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing offers a refreshing bite against the richness of mac and cheese.
3. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned green beans provide a healthy option that adds color to your plate.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil brings sweetness and earthiness to the table.
5. Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds a tangy contrast that balances the creaminess of your main dish.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs perfectly with cheesy dishes, adding sweetness and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese. Here are a few common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Bold seasoning mistake: Using too much or too little Ranch seasoning can affect the flavor. Measure carefully for the best taste.
• Bold overcooking chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dry meat. Always check that it reaches 165 degrees internally.
• Bold undercooking pasta: Skipping the parboiling step may result in mushy pasta. Parboil for only 3 minutes to keep it firm.
• Bold incorrect cheese blend: Using low-fat or non-fat cheese can impact creaminess. Stick with full-fat for a rich texture.
• Bold neglecting to stir: Failing to stir during cooking can cause uneven heating. Stir at least a few times for consistent results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

• Use freezer-safe containers for storage.
• This dish freezes well for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Bold Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Bold Stovetop: Warm on low heat, adding a splash of milk for creaminess if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese?

Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, pasta, and cheese cooked together in a crockpot.

Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or swap chicken with turkey or lamb based on your preference.

How do I ensure my macaroni is cooked perfectly?

Be sure to parboil the pasta for just 3 minutes before adding it to the crockpot. This prevents it from becoming mushy during cooking.

What can I serve with Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese?

This dish pairs well with a simple salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese is an easy and satisfying meal perfect for busy evenings. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, you can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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