Print

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 5 reviews

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender shredded chicken coated in tangy BBQ sauce with cheesy pasta. It’s a perfect blend of smoky, savory flavors that make a hearty meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Sauce

  • 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Pasta and Cheese Sauce

  • 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred)

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Warm the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
  3. Add BBQ Sauce and Spices: Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly so the chicken is well coated with the flavorful sauce.
  4. Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, continuing to stir until the cheese melts completely and forms a smooth sauce.
  5. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring well to evenly coat the pasta with the creamy cheese.
  6. Mix in BBQ Chicken: Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the cheesy pasta, stirring until everything is thoroughly combined and heated through.
  7. Season and Serve: Taste the mac and cheese and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • Feel free to substitute pasta with gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.
  • For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the BBQ chicken mixture.
  • Use low-fat or whole milk depending on preference but avoid skim as it may affect creaminess.
  • Cheese can be varied: try smoked gouda or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy chicken pasta, cheesy barbecue pasta, comfort food

Find it online: https://cookwithlea.com/bbq-chicken-mac-and-cheese-recipe-2/