Description
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combines tender shredded chicken coated in smoky BBQ sauce with creamy cheddar and mozzarella cheese sauce. The comforting macaroni pasta is layered with flavorful seasonings, making a delicious and hearty meal ready in just 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick family dinner with a tasty BBQ twist on classic mac and cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- 8 oz (225g) 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)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the macaroni or pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Warm the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the cooked and shredded chicken, stirring for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
- Season the Chicken: Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, plus salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly so the chicken is evenly coated and heated. Set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, pour in the milk. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the drained, cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta with the creamy sauce.
- Add BBQ Chicken Mixture: Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the cheesy pasta, mixing well until everything is combined and evenly distributed.
- Taste and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if you like.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding to maintain food safety.
- You can use any pasta shape you prefer, though elbow macaroni is classic.
- If you like spicy food, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning.
- For a richer sauce, substitute whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice color contrast but can be omitted if unavailable.
