
Are you ready to take your comfort food game to the next level? This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines the rich, creamy goodness of classic mac and cheese with the smoky, tangy flavors of BBQ chicken. It’s the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for a hearty chicken recipe that feels indulgent but is easy to whip up.
Imagine cheesy pasta coated in a luscious sauce, mixed with tender pieces of BBQ chicken. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. The blend of textures from the creamy sauce and the crunchy topping makes every bite an exciting experience.
Satisfying BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting blend of creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and flavorful BBQ chicken, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer for added texture. It’s a delicious twist on a classic dish that brings together the best of both worlds.
With its rich and smoky flavor profile, this dish is perfect for those who love a hearty chicken recipe that can be prepared in a flash.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, then add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken, along with the BBQ sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 550kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 60g