Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This creamy, cheesy dish combines tender chicken and fresh broccoli with pasta, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. It’s not only easy to make but also guarantees a delicious meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or taking it to a potluck, this recipe stands out for its rich flavors and hassle-free preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax.
• Creamy Deliciousness: The combination of cheddar cheese and cream cheese creates a rich, velvety sauce that’s hard to resist.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with chicken and broccoli, this dish offers a nutritious balance without sacrificing flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting meal, making it a perfect choice for family dinners.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or as a side; it’s great for any occasion!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools. These essentials will help ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Mixing spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: This appliance makes cooking hands-off and allows flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Measuring cups: Ensuring accurate ingredient portions is key to achieving the perfect taste.
• Chopping board & knife: These tools are essential for prepping your ingredients quickly and safely.

Ingredients

This is an easy and delicious dinner recipe!

For the Main Dish

• 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

• 8 oz of shell pasta or elbow macaroni noodles

For the Creamy Sauce

• 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

• Cut the chicken into cubes.
• Spray your crockpot with cooking spray.
• Add the chicken, Ranch seasoning, chicken broth, minced garlic, and broccoli to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Cook on low for about 3-4 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 3: Prepare the Pasta

• Boil pasta in salted water for about 3 minutes.
• Drain carefully; this step parboils the pasta so it doesn’t overcook in the crockpot.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

• Once the chicken is done cooking, add the parboiled pasta into the crockpot.
• Pour in whole milk, shredded cheddar cheese, dry mustard seasoning, and cream cheese.

Step 5: Stir and Finish Cooking

• Stir everything together until well combined.
• Cook on low for an additional hour, stirring occasionally.

Enjoy your hearty Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese!

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan for a classic touch.
• Garden Salad: A mix of seasonal greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing for a refreshing contrast.

Top with Crunchy Toppings

• Breadcrumbs: Toasted breadcrumbs sprinkled on top add texture and crunch.
• Chopped Nuts: Almonds or walnuts can provide an unexpected nutty flavor and crunch.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy macaroni.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are great for soaking up any extra cheese sauce.

Pair with Vegetables

• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned green beans offer a simple yet delicious side.
• Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil makes for an elegant accompaniment.

How to Perfect Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Achieving the perfect Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time.

• Bold Cooking Time: Monitor the cooking time carefully; overcooking can lead to mushy pasta. Aim for the specified times in the recipe.
• Bold Use of Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli not only tastes better but also retains its nutrients. Choose vibrant florets for the best flavor.
• Bold Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for varied flavors. Mixing cheeses can elevate the dish.
• Bold Seasoning Adjustments: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Bold Pasta Preparation: Parboil the pasta just enough so it’s slightly firm. This prevents it from becoming too soft in the crockpot.
• Bold Stirring During Cooking: Stirring occasionally helps combine flavors evenly and prevents sticking at the bottom of the crockpot.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Complement your meal with delightful side dishes that pair well with Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Savory garlic butter spread on toasted bread adds a rich flavor that complements creamy mac and cheese beautifully.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Extra veggies on the side help balance out the richness of the main dish while providing additional nutrients.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, making it a great contrast to the creamy pasta.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn can bring a burst of flavor that pairs nicely with cheesy dishes; simply boil or grill it for best results.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts seasoned with olive oil deliver a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture of mac and cheese.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness and brightness, creating a refreshing balance to your hearty meal.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a delicious side that many enjoy alongside cheesy dishes.
8. Quinoa Salad: A protein-rich quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides an excellent nutritious boost while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Bold Timing Errors: Cooking for too long or too short can ruin the chicken. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Bold Overloading Ingredients: Adding too many ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Bold Ignoring Pasta Cooking Time: Parboiling the pasta is crucial. If you skip this step, your pasta may become mushy in the crockpot.
• Bold Not Stirring Enough: Failing to stir during cooking can cause ingredients to stick or burn. Make sure to stir at least a few times in the last hour.
• Bold Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your dish before serving. You might need to add extra seasoning based on your preference.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Bold Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese?

Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta cooked in a slow cooker.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just add it directly into the crockpot without thawing first.

How can I customize my Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese?

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or swap out the cheese for a variety you prefer such as mozzarella or gouda.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.

How do I store leftovers of Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for busy evenings. Its creamy texture and delicious flavors can be customized easily with various vegetables or cheeses. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple it is to prepare!

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