If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, satisfying one-pan meal that packs a punch of flavor and delivers comfort in every bite, then you absolutely need to try this Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe. Imagine tender chunks of chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese melding together over wide egg noodles, all cooked in one skillet for ease and maximum deliciousness. This dish combines the best of all worlds—wholesome vegetables, melty cheese, and hearty noodles—making it a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special but is surprisingly simple to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe just right is all about having the perfect balance of fresh ingredients that bring color, texture, and rich flavor to the table. Each component plays a vital role—from the sharpness of cheddar to the peppery kick of cayenne, every ingredient is essential.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the onions and chicken to golden perfection while adding a subtle fruity note.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds a sweet and aromatic base that complements the creamy cheese beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, savory depth that awakens the palate.
- ¾ lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, chopped into 1-inch pieces: Provides lean protein and a tender texture to the skillet.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Enhances richness and helps meld the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard: Adds a subtle tangy heat that cuts through the creaminess.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): A little spark that brightens the dish without overpowering it.
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth: Builds a flavorful cooking liquid for the noodles and broccoli to soak up.
- 2 cups whole milk: Brings creaminess and balances the savory notes with mild sweetness.
- 1 lb wide egg noodles: The perfect hearty base with enough surface to catch all that cheesy sauce.
- 3 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped: Adds vibrant green color, crunch, and healthy freshness.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that gives this dish its irresistibly gooey and tangy finish.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors to life.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Cook Chicken
Start by warming the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Toss in the diced onions and sauté them until they’re soft and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness. Next, add the minced garlic and cook just for a minute, allowing it to awaken its fragrance without becoming bitter. Now it’s time to add the chopped chicken pieces. Season them generously with salt and pepper, then cook until they’re golden on all sides—this caramelized layer will add beautiful depth to the finished dish. Stir in the butter for that silky richness, then sprinkle in the ground mustard and cayenne pepper if you want a little bit of a spicy kick.
Step 2: Simmer Noodles and Broccoli
Pour in the broth and whole milk, gently stirring to combine all those aromatic ingredients. Bring the mixture up to a simmer, then add the wide egg noodles along with the chopped broccoli florets. Season everything again with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let this simmer gently while stirring often; this ensures the noodles cook evenly and absorb the flavorful liquid, and the broccoli becomes tender but still bright and fresh. The chicken will finish cooking in this creamy bath, creating a beautifully integrated texture and taste.
Step 3: Melt in the Cheese
Once the noodles are tender and most of the liquid has cooked away, it’s time for the magic moment—stir in half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This step transforms the skillet into a creamy, cheesy delight. Tweak the seasoning if needed, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover the skillet and let it rest off the heat so the top layer melts perfectly, creating a luscious cheesy crust that pulls at your fork.
Step 4: Finish with a Broiled or Baked Top
If you’re craving a golden, bubbly, and slightly crisp cheese topping, place the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes or pop it into an oven preheated to 425°F (220°C) for about 15 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning—the end result is worth the wait: an irresistible, beautifully browned skillet that’s just begging to be served.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To make your presentation pop and add an extra layer of freshness, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh parsley or chives on top. A light dusting of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes can also add visual interest and a tiny hint of smoky heat. These simple touches elevate the dish and make every serving feel just a little more special.
Side Dishes
This Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe is quite hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted cherry tomatoes adds a nice contrast. For a comfort food feast, warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks are also wonderful companions to soak up any leftover cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve this skillet straight from a rustic cast-iron pan for a cozy family-style meal? Alternatively, scoop generous portions into individual gratin dishes and top with extra cheese before broiling for personalized cheesy crusts. For a lunch twist, pack it in a thermos to enjoy warm and comforting on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you’ve enjoyed your skillet, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy next-day meals or quick lunches that still feel homemade and comforting.
Freezing
If you want to prep this Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe in advance, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that broccoli may lose some texture after freezing, but the flavors will remain rich and satisfying.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep the cheese sauce creamy and silky. If you prefer, pop it in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil to warm evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is ideal for that classic melty, tangy flavor, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, gouda, or even pepper jack for a twist. Just be sure to choose a cheese that melts well to keep that creamy texture.
Is this recipe adaptable for vegetarians?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. You might also add hearty mushrooms or additional veggies like bell peppers to keep it packed with flavor and texture.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Definitely. Substitute the whole milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, use dairy-free cheese alternatives, and swap butter for a plant-based spread. The results remain delicious, though the texture might vary slightly.
What’s the best way to make sure the noodles don’t get mushy?
Keep an eye on the simmering time, stirring occasionally so noodles cook evenly and don’t stick. Using a short cooking time and plenty of liquid helps achieve tender but firm noodles that hold up perfectly in the skillet.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Of course! Feel free to toss in sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even spinach for extra nutrients and color. Just consider cooking times for each veggie so everything cooks through evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to comfort meals whenever I crave something creamy, cheesy, and full of wholesome goodness. It’s straightforward, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—a real crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and lazy weekends. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it a favorite in your own kitchen!
Print
Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 3-4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Skillet is a comforting and hearty one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, wide egg noodles, and sharp cheddar cheese all simmered together in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe combines sautéing, simmering, and optional oven-broiling to achieve a melty, bubbly cheesy topping everyone will love.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- ¾ lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped
Dairy and Cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided into 1 cup and 1 cup)
Pantry Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 lb wide egg noodles
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped chicken pieces, season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, and cook until the chicken is golden brown on all sides.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in the butter, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper if using. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and whole milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Noodles and Broccoli: Add the wide egg noodles and broccoli florets to the skillet. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Continue simmering, stirring often, until the noodles and chicken are fully cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 15 minutes.
- Melt Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts fully into the sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste. Then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it rest off the heat until the cheese melts.
- Optional Broil for Topping: For a browned and bubbly cheese topping, place the uncovered skillet under the broiler or bake it in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. Serve warm.
Notes
- Using wide egg noodles helps them hold up well in the creamy sauce without getting mushy.
- Cayenne pepper is optional for a subtle kick; omit if you prefer mild flavors.
- If you don’t have a broiler, baking at 425°F will similarly melt and brown the cheese topping.
- This recipe can be doubled to serve a larger group.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
