Description
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines creamy, cheesy pasta with tender BBQ chicken for a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 1 1/2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, toss shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and warm over low heat. Set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
- Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- Fold in BBQ chicken or spoon it over the top for a layered effect.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
- Add a breadcrumb topping and broil for a crispy finish.
- Try using smoked gouda or pepper jack for a twist on the cheese blend.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg