Description

Savory BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a mouthwatering dish that marries creamy cheese with tender chicken and rich smoky flavors, creating a comforting meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. This one-pot wonder simplifies your cooking experience while delivering a flavor-packed bowl of goodness that appeals to both kids and adults alike. With just the right blend of BBQ sauce and sharp cheddar, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether served as a main course or a side at potlucks, it promises smiles all around!

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
3/4 cup BBQ sauce
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups whole milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until slightly undercooked; drain and set aside.
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook until golden.
Gradually add whole milk while whisking until the mixture thickens.
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika before adding the cheddar cheese until smooth.
Fold in shredded chicken and BBQ sauce until well combined.
Mix in the drained macaroni until fully incorporated. Transfer to a greased baking dish if desired.
Optionally bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes for a bubbly finish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 580
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 900mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 80mg