Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese is one of those recipes that instantly fills your kitchen with a comforting aroma that promises creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
The moment I started this Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese recipe, the combination of garlic, Ranch seasoning, and melted cheese had me imagining a cozy night with family, all gathered around a warm, hearty meal.
There’s something truly special about this recipe. It’s not just mac and cheese; it’s a one-pot wonder that balances protein, veggies, and pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce that clings to every shell of pasta.
I loved how the slow-cooked chicken remained tender while the broccoli held its bright green color, giving each bite a burst of freshness alongside the creamy texture of the sauce.
Cooking Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese in the crockpot also frees you up from constant stirring or watching the stove, making it perfect for busy evenings when you still want a homemade dinner that tastes gourmet.
Why This Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Is a Must-Try
What makes Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese an ideal recipe is its combination of convenience and flavor. Cooking everything in one pot means minimal cleanup, and because it’s slow-cooked, the flavors have time to meld beautifully.
The creamy sauce enriched with cream cheese, cheddar, and a hint of dry mustard powder gives it a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, the addition of Ranch seasoning adds a subtle tang that elevates this from your typical mac and cheese.
Every time I served Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese, I felt like I was giving my family a special meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Key Ingredients in Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe
-1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
-5 cups fresh broccoli florets
-8 ounces shell pasta or elbow macaroni
-8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
-4 ounces cream cheese
-1 1/2 cups whole milk
-1/2 cup chicken broth
-1 packet Ranch seasoning
-1 tablespoon minced garlic
-1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
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Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 min
- Yield: 4–6 servings
Description
Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, pasta, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and Ranch seasoning—perfect for easy weeknight dinners everyone will love.
Ingredients
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 5 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 8 ounces shell pasta or elbow macaroni
• 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 packet Ranch seasoning
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
Instructions
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray. Place the cubed chicken, broccoli florets, Ranch seasoning, chicken broth, and minced garlic into the crockpot. Cover and cook on the low setting for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
While the chicken and broccoli cook, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for only 3 minutes, then drain well. This short boil prevents the noodles from becoming too soft later.
Once the chicken and broccoli are done, add the parboiled pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, whole milk, and dry mustard powder to the crockpot. Stir everything together until well combined. Cover and cook on low for another hour, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and the pasta is tender.
Serve the mac and cheese in bowls.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 min
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crock Pot
- Cuisine: American
How to Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Step-by-Step
Here’s how I make this Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese step by step:
-Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray. This ensures nothing sticks and cleanup is easier.
-Place the cubed chicken, broccoli florets, Ranch seasoning, chicken broth, and minced garlic into the crockpot. Cover and cook on the low setting for 3 to 4 hours. I love peeking in towards the end to see how tender the chicken has become.
-While the chicken and broccoli cook, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for only 3 minutes, then drain well. Parboiling the pasta helps prevent it from becoming mushy in the crockpot.
-Once the chicken and broccoli are done, add the parboiled pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, whole milk, and dry mustard powder to the crockpot. Stir everything together until well combined.
-Cover and cook on low for another hour, stirring occasionally. During this time, I enjoy the aroma filling the kitchen—it’s pure comfort food in progress.
-Serve the mac and cheese in bowls, making sure every serving gets a bit of cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and broccoli.
I also like to suggest a few other recipes that pair beautifully with this dish, especially for those looking to make a full meal:
- Crockpot Spiral Ham Recipe
- Sausage Onion Bell Peppers and Tomatoes Over Rice
- Spicy Southwest Ranch Chicken Tortellini Skillet
Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13 g |
| Cholesterol | 110 mg |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can. If using frozen, add it during the last hour of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble it in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, cook as directed, adding a little extra milk if the sauce thickens too much.
Is there a substitute for cheddar cheese?
You can use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses depending on your preference. Just ensure it melts well.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños can give it a nice kick without overpowering the flavors.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Adding a splash of milk helps maintain the creamy texture.
Conclusion
Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Mac and Cheese is one of those dishes that always impresses yet is simple enough to prepare on a busy day. The first time I made it, my family kept coming back for seconds, and I was thrilled at how effortless it was to create such a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish.
From the tender chicken to the perfectly cooked pasta and bright green broccoli, it’s a meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Looking for inspiration? Visit Elise Chef on Pinterest to explore beautifully curated high-fiber recipes and discover your next healthy habit.