Print

Mac and Cheese BBQ Chicken

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 114 reviews

A comforting and flavorful Mac and Cheese BBQ Chicken recipe that combines tender shredded chicken tossed in smoky BBQ sauce with creamy cheddar and mozzarella cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked macaroni. This skillet dish offers a delicious twist on classic mac and cheese, perfect as a hearty weeknight meal or casual gathering favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Mixture

  • 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 and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
  2. Heat the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shredded cooked chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
  3. Add BBQ and spices: Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into the chicken. Mix thoroughly so the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
  4. Make the cheese sauce: In a separate saucepan, gently heat 1 cup of low-fat milk over medium heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts fully and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Combine pasta with cheese sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat all the pasta evenly with the cheesy sauce.
  6. Add BBQ chicken mixture: Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the cheesy pasta carefully, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.
  7. Adjust seasonings and serve: Taste the mac and cheese, and add salt and pepper if needed. Serve the dish hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother melting quality.
  • For extra smoky flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke to the BBQ chicken mixture.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
  • For a creamier dish, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
  • Use gluten-free pasta if gluten dietary restrictions apply.

Keywords: mac and cheese, BBQ chicken, comfort food, cheddar cheese, easy dinner, skillet meal

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