Description
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combines creamy, cheesy pasta with savory BBQ shredded chicken for a flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. Baked to bubbly perfection with a golden top, this dish is perfect for a hearty family dinner or casual get-together.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
Seasonings
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Crispy bacon bits
- Chopped green onions
- Breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the mac and cheese later.
- Cook Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with the BBQ sauce, stirring until the chicken is fully coated in the sauce.
- Mix Cheese and Pasta: In another large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta Mixture: Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the pasta and cheese blend, mixing gently but thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish and spread the combined mixture evenly within it. If desired, sprinkle any leftover cheese on top for a cheesier crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
- To make this dish spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash more milk before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the pasta with gluten-free macaroni and use gluten-free breadcrumbs if topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: BBQ chicken mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta, BBQ chicken recipe
