Name: BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 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); ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Why Make This Recipe

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s creamy, cheesy, and infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of barbecue sauce. This recipe brings together the comfort of mac and cheese with the bold taste of BBQ chicken, making it a delightful and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a yummy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress!

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken in the sauce.
In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Then, fold in the BBQ chicken mixture and continue stirring until everything is well mixed.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese can be served in bowls or on plates as a main dish. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also top it with extra BBQ sauce or cheese for those who really love flavor.

How to Store BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk when reheating to help restore the creaminess.

Tips to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

For an extra cheesy dish, feel free to add more cheese!
You can use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking the chicken.
Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on your taste preference. If you like it sweeter, add more; if you like it spicier, choose a kicky BBQ sauce.

Variation

For a twist, you can add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to the mix. This adds color, flavor, and extra nutrients to your dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like! Bowties, penne, or fusilli work well too.

2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep and can be made in advance for quick meals during the week.

3. Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese