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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Comfort Food Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 76 reviews
  • Author: Angela
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender shredded rotisserie chicken with smoky BBQ sauce and creamy, cheesy macaroni for a delightful twist on classic comfort food. Baked to golden bubbly perfection with an optional crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Chicken

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie chicken)
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping (Optional)

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Garnish (Optional)

  • Chopped green onions or parsley

Instructions

  1. Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil using about 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 7-8 minutes.
  2. Drain and Rinse: Drain the pasta and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
  3. Make Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden.
  4. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Season Sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Add Cheeses: Gradually stir in shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy, forming a rich cheese sauce.
  7. Combine Pasta and Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and BBQ sauce. Gently fold together until evenly mixed.
  8. Mix with Cheese Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta mixture and fold carefully until everything is evenly coated.
  9. Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  10. Assemble Dish: Pour the BBQ chicken mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  11. Optional Topping: If using, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top.
  12. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Check around the 20-minute mark to monitor browning.
  13. Cool and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to set.

Notes

  • Using rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and convenience, but you can use any cooked chicken.
  • For extra smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked cheddar.
  • Whole milk is recommended for the richest and creamiest sauce; low-fat milk can be used for a lighter version.
  • If breadcrumbs are not available or desired, omit the topping or use crushed crackers as an alternative.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

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Find it online: https://tastydailyeats.com/bbq-chicken-mac-and-cheese-a-delicious-twist-on-a-classic-comfort-food-recipe/