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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 73 reviews

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender shredded chicken smothered in tangy BBQ sauce with creamy, cheesy macaroni for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, it’s a delicious twist on classic mac and cheese with a smoky, savory kick.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Sauce

  • 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 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 macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
  2. Warm the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded cooked chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and slightly golden.
  3. Add the BBQ Seasoning: Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into the chicken. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce and spices. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to blend flavors.
  4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium heat. Gradually add the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring constantly until all cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overheat to avoid curdling.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated in cheesy goodness.
  6. Incorporate BBQ Chicken: Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the pasta and cheese sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and heated through.
  7. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the mac and cheese and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Notes

  • You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
  • For extra flavor, add a handful of crispy bacon bits or some sautéed onions.
  • This dish is great for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Keywords: BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, easy mac and cheese, BBQ chicken recipe, cheesy pasta, comfort food, weeknight dinner

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