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

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★★★★★

4.5 from 99 reviews

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce, tender shredded BBQ chicken, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Finished with a crispy breadcrumb topping and baked to golden perfection, this hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

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. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, adding about 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden, ensuring the flour taste is cooked out.
  3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring often, until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Add Cheeses: Gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the sauce until they are fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
  5. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and BBQ Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained pasta, shredded chicken, and BBQ sauce. Gently fold the ingredients together to coat everything evenly.
  6. Mix with Cheese Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and chicken mixture. Fold gently until the cheese sauce is evenly distributed throughout.
  7. Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
  8. Add Breadcrumb Topping (Optional): If using breadcrumbs, mix them with olive oil until combined and sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese mixture.
  9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Begin checking at around 20 minutes to prevent over-browning.
  10. Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Using rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves prep time.
  • Whole milk gives the creamiest cheese sauce, but 2% milk can be used as a lighter alternative.
  • Customize the BBQ sauce to suit your spice and flavor preferences.
  • The breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunchy contrast.
  • Letting the baked mac and cheese rest helps it set and makes it easier to serve.

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

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