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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

A creamy, cheesy mac and cheese paired with smoky BBQ chicken, perfect for comfort food lovers and any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or rotisserie chicken)
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni (or shells or cavatappi)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup gouda cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the macaroni until al dente (around 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Shred or dice the chicken and toss it with BBQ sauce until coated.
  3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to smooth out lumps. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes until thickened.
  4. Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheeses a handful at a time. Mix until fully melted and creamy.
  5. In a large pot or mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and BBQ chicken. Stir until evenly coated.
  6. Optional: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Notes

For a smoky twist, grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it. Taste the cheese sauce before mixing it with the pasta and adjust seasonings as needed. A pinch of cayenne can add a nice kick.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 625
  • Sugar: 8
  • Sodium: 950
  • Fat: 28
  • Saturated Fat: 15
  • Carbohydrates: 52
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 28

Keywords: BBQ chicken mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta, BBQ recipe

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Find it online: https://flavorfullrecipes.com/ultimate-bbq-chicken-mac-and-cheese-recipe-you-must-try/