Description
A creamy and flavorful BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combining tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy BBQ sauce with a rich, cheesy macaroni base. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick family dinner with a delicious smoky twist.
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, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the macaroni or pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to be combined later.
- Warm the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked and shredded chicken and stir for 2-3 minutes until heated through and slightly warm.
- Season the Chicken: Add the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly so the chicken is evenly coated in the flavorful BBQ mixture. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, pour in the milk. Gradually add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese while stirring constantly until the cheese melts fully and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the drained, cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat every piece of pasta with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Add BBQ Chicken Mixture: Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the cheesy pasta carefully. Mix well to ensure the chicken and sauce are evenly combined throughout.
- Taste and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness if preferred.
Notes
- Use low-fat milk to keep the dish lighter without compromising creaminess.
- For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch more smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the chicken mixture.
- To make ahead, prepare all components, combine, and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
- Gluten-free pasta can be used to make this dish gluten-free.
- If you like, sprinkle additional cheese on top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes for a baked cheese crust variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
