Easy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s the best of both worlds! The tender BBQ chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy and cheesy macaroni, creating an irresistible flavor profile. It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner, and the BBQ sauce adds a unique twist to the traditional mac and cheese. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, it’s a straightforward meal that delivers big taste.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 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)
• 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
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and sauté for a couple of minutes until heated through.
3. Lower the heat and add the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
4. Add the milk to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly to avoid curdling.
5. Once the milk has warmed, add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing it into the sauce until fully coated.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian version: You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
• Spicy kick: Add a little sriracha or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce to spice things up.
• Different cheeses: Swap out the mozzarella or cheddar with gouda, Monterey Jack, or a sharp blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until heated through. You can also reheat in a skillet on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce becomes too thick.

FAQs

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, using pre-cooked chicken (like rotisserie chicken) can save you time. Just shred it and toss it in the skillet with the BBQ sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese for up to 2-3 months. Reheat it thoroughly when you’re ready to eat.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta.

Is this dish spicy?

This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to adjust the heat level to your liking.

What can I use instead of BBQ sauce?

You could use a honey mustard sauce, ranch dressing, or even a buffalo wing sauce for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make it healthier, you can use whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheeses, and a lighter BBQ sauce. You could also replace some of the cheese with Greek yogurt for creaminess.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, spinach, or peas to add more nutrients and flavor.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

Can I double this recipe?

Of course! If you need to feed a larger crowd, simply double the ingredients. Be sure to adjust your cooking time slightly if necessary.

Conclusion

This Easy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist. It’s simple to prepare, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. With the creamy cheese, smoky BBQ chicken, and savory pasta, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household!

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