Penne Mac & Cheese with Grilled Chicken & Broccoli

Ingredients:

For the Pasta & Broccoli:

• 12 oz penne pasta

• 2 cups broccoli florets

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt (to taste)

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups whole milk (or half & half for creamier texture)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional)

• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta & Broccoli:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

• In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water.

• Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Grill the Chicken:

• Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.

• Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

• Grill for 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).

• Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce:

• In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

• Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.

• Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

• Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until slightly thickened.

• Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, whisking until melted.

• Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Assemble the Dish:

• Add cooked pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.

• Toss in the sliced grilled chicken.

• Let everything warm together for 2-3 minutes on low heat.

5. Serve & Enjoy:

• Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

• Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, cheesy Penne Mac & Cheese with Grilled Chicken & Broccoli! 🍽️