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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 10 reviews

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious and comforting twist on the classic mac and cheese. Tender shredded chicken is tossed in smoky BBQ sauce and combined with creamy cheddar and mozzarella cheese sauce, all mixed with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

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)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
  3. Make the BBQ Chicken Mixture: Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into the chicken. Mix well, ensuring the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the sauce. Remove from heat.
  4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine and coat the pasta evenly.
  6. Fold in BBQ Chicken: Incorporate the BBQ chicken mixture into the cheesy pasta. Stir carefully until all ingredients are well mixed and heated through.
  7. Season and Serve: Taste the mac and cheese, then adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the BBQ chicken mixture.
  • You can substitute the chicken breast with cooked pulled pork or tofu for variations.
  • Use whole milk or cream instead of low-fat milk for an even richer cheese sauce.
  • Prepare the shredded chicken in advance to save time during the cooking process.
  • This recipe can be baked for 15 minutes at 350°F if you prefer a crispy top layer—just sprinkle additional cheese and/or breadcrumbs before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, shredded chicken recipes, easy comfort food, cheesy pasta with BBQ sauce

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