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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 57 reviews

A comforting and flavorful BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that combines tender shredded chicken coated in tangy BBQ sauce with creamy cheddar and mozzarella cheese sauce, all mixed with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. This hearty dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying family meal.

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 Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
  2. Heat Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked shredded chicken and warm for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
  3. Add BBQ Sauce and Spices: Stir in BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into the chicken. Mix well to coat all the chicken pieces evenly with the sauce and spices.
  4. Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk. Gradually stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, continuing to stir until the cheese melts and forms a smooth, creamy sauce.
  5. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring well to combine and fully coat the pasta with the cheesy mixture.
  6. Mix in BBQ Chicken: Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the cheesy pasta until everything is thoroughly mixed and heated through.
  7. Adjust Seasonings and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use low-fat milk to keep the dish lighter but still creamy.
  • You can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer.
  • For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika as indicated, or substitute with regular paprika with a pinch of cayenne for heat.
  • Leftovers can be reheated in a skillet or microwave.
  • For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.

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

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