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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
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This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is a quick and comforting meal that combines creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and smoky BBQ flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion where you want a flavorful, satisfying dish with minimal effort. Versatile and family-friendly, this one-pot wonder delivers classic comfort food with a bold BBQ twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

Protein & Sauce

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later use.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about one minute until lightly golden. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until the cheese melts smoothly into a creamy sauce.
  3. Add the BBQ Chicken: Stir the shredded or diced cooked chicken into the cheese sauce. Pour in your favorite BBQ sauce and mix thoroughly, allowing the flavors to meld over low heat for a few minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and gently fold to evenly coat the pasta with the cheesy BBQ sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
  5. Serve or Bake: For a quick meal, serve immediately with your favorite garnishes and sides. For an extra touch, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with additional cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

  • Use quality BBQ sauce to ensure the best flavor—smoky, sweet, or tangy varieties all work well.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; slightly undercooked macaroni holds up better when mixed or baked.
  • Shred your own cheese for a smoother melt, avoiding pre-shredded options with additives.
  • Melt cheese on low heat to prevent clumping and ensure creaminess.
  • Taste and adjust BBQ sauce, salt, and spice levels before combining all ingredients.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, creamy mac and cheese, BBQ chicken recipe, comfort food, quick dinner, one-pot meal

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