Velveeta Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Macaroni Recipe
This delightful Velveeta Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Macaroni is a quick and easy one-dish meal that will satisfy the whole family. Originating from the rich culinary traditions of Louisiana, this dish showcases a blend of simple ingredients and bold flavors, perfect for those busy weeknights. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it is bound to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Recipe Overview
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 (adjust as needed)
- Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
- Keywords: < 60 mins
Description
Born and raised in Louisiana, we can come up with the weirdest things to eat. This recipe is simple, quick, and all cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a comforting, creamy dish featuring tender chicken, macaroni, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a rich Velveeta cheese sauce.
Ingredients
Quantity | Ingredient |
---|---|
1 | Medium onion, chopped |
1 | Garlic clove, minced |
4 | Boneless, skinless chicken breast halves |
1 | Chicken broth (low sodium recommended) |
2 | Cups elbow macaroni |
3/4 | Pound Velveeta cheese, cubed |
1 | Cup broccoli florets |
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 418.7 |
Total Fat | 15.5 g |
Saturated Fat | 8.8 g |
Cholesterol | 95.2 mg |
Sodium | 1170.2 mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 35.4 g |
Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g |
Sugars | 6.8 g |
Protein | 33.4 g |
Instructions
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Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating a generous spray of cooking spray or a tablespoon of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them together until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish.
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Cook the Chicken: Next, introduce the boneless, skinless chicken breast halves to the pot. Cook the chicken while stirring frequently for about 2 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink. This helps to lock in the flavors and ensure even cooking.
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Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring well to combine. This broth will add moisture and flavor to the dish, creating a delicious sauce as it cooks.
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Bring to a Boil: Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, you will be ready to add the macaroni.
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Add the Macaroni: Stir in the elbow macaroni, ensuring it is evenly distributed in the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot with a lid, and allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes. During this time, the macaroni will cook and absorb the flavors of the broth.
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Monitor the Cooking: As the macaroni simmers, it’s essential to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you notice that the liquid is being absorbed too quickly and the macaroni isn’t tender yet, feel free to add a splash of water to help it along.
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Incorporate Velveeta and Broccoli: Once the macaroni is tender, reduce the heat to low and add the cubed Velveeta cheese and broccoli florets. Stir the mixture until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a creamy sauce that envelops the macaroni and chicken.
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Final Touches: Check the consistency; if the macaroni appears too thick, add a bit more water or broth until you reach your desired creaminess. Stir thoroughly to ensure that everything is well combined and heated through.
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Serving Suggestions: This Velveeta Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Macaroni is delicious on its own, but if you’re looking for sides, consider serving it with a refreshing corn salad or some steamed green beans to balance out the meal.
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Enjoy: Serve hot, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this Louisiana-inspired dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table!
This Velveeta Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Macaroni dish exemplifies how easy it can be to prepare a satisfying meal that brings warmth and joy to your dining experience. It’s an ideal choice for families seeking a quick, hearty, and delicious dinner solution, leaving you time to relax and enjoy your evening together.