Description
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious twist on a classic comfort dish, combining tender shredded chicken tossed in smoky BBQ sauce with a creamy cheddar and mozzarella cheese sauce mixed into perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Mixture
- 450 g (1 lb) boneless skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (sweet and smoky recommended)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- 225 g (8 oz) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Optional drizzle of BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
- Warm the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked shredded chicken and warm it through for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Mix chicken with BBQ sauce and spices: Stir in BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into the warm chicken. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken well, then set the mixture aside.
- Heat the milk: In a separate saucepan, gently warm the milk over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling, preparing it for the cheese sauce.
- Make the cheese sauce: Gradually add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the warmed milk, stirring continuously until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth without lumps.
- Combine pasta and cheese sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring carefully to ensure all the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Add BBQ chicken mixture: Fold in the BBQ chicken mixture into the cheesy pasta, stirring until everything is well combined and heated through evenly.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve the mac and cheese hot.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top, and optionally drizzle with extra BBQ sauce for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For extra smoky flavor, try adding a splash of liquid smoke to the chicken mixture.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting quality and overall taste.
- To make this dish ahead, prepare the components separately and combine just before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.
