Description
A delicious and comforting BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combining tender shredded chicken tossed in smoky BBQ sauce with creamy cheddar and mozzarella cheese sauce, served over perfectly cooked macaroni. This quick 25-minute stovetop dish is perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Mixture
- 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 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
- Use low-fat milk to keep the cheese sauce creamy but lighter.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the BBQ chicken mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Feel free to substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer.
