BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: Creamy Comfort Food Delight

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a creamy, smoky dish perfect for gatherings.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Cooling Time 10

Total Time 50

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Classic Comfort Food

Cuisine: American

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni This classic shape captures the creamy sauce perfectly.

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tablespoon unsalted butter Adds richness and depth to reach that creamy texture.
¼ cup all-purpose flour Helps thicken the cheese sauce for a smooth feel.
3 cups milk Use whole milk for extra creaminess.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Provides sharp flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Adds gooey quality.
1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances flavor with aromatic goodness.
1 teaspoon onion powder Adds subtle sweetness.
to taste salt
to taste pepper

For the BBQ Chicken

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast Use tender chicken for best texture.
1 cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite brand.

For Garnish and Topping

2 tablespoon sliced green onions Adds fresh crunch.
2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley Optional for brightness.
½ cup breadcrumbs Optional for topping.

Equipment

large saucepan
9×13-inch baking dish

Method

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente.
Melt the unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in the milk and bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 5 minutes.
Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Fold the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce.
Combine shredded chicken and BBQ sauce in a separate bowl.
Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the macaroni and cheese.
Transfer to a greased baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if desired.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Let cool for 10 minutes, garnish, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 2 months.

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