Are you searching for a delicious way to combine comfort food with a smoky twist? Look no further than this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese! It’s the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you need easy dinner recipes for family that everyone will love. With tender pasta enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with flavorful BBQ chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Imagine a cheesy, gooey plate of mac and cheese elevated by the tangy flavor of barbecue chicken. The blend of rich cheese and zesty BBQ sauce creates a tantalizing taste experience that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s simple to make, giving you plenty of time to enjoy with your loved ones.
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile. You can use leftover chicken or even store-bought rotisserie chicken to whip it up in no time. Perfect for busy families looking for a quick and satisfying meal!
Delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese features creamy elbow macaroni, tender chicken coated in smoky BBQ sauce, and a blend of cheeses that melts together to create a truly delightful dish. It’s filling, comforting, and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, then gradually whisk in the milk. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens.
- Add Cheeses and Season: Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the cheese sauce, followed by the BBQ sauce. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 480kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
