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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese topped with crispy breadcrumbs and herbs

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

A comforting and easy casserole combining smoky BBQ flavor, creamy cheese sauce, and tender chicken over elbow pasta.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein
  • 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded Rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or quickly poached breasts work well.
Pasta
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni Can substitute with cavatappi, shells, or small penne.
Fats and Flavor Base
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Use light-tasting olive oil or a neutral oil.
Cheeses
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Freshly shredded melts best.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Provides stretch and a milder melt.
Liquid and Sauce
  • 1 cup milk Low-fat preferred but whole or 2% gives richer sauce.
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite brand or homemade.
Spices and Aromatics
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Can use 1 minced clove of garlic instead.
  • 1 tsp onion powder Or 1 tbsp finely diced onion cooked until translucent.
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika For warmth and subtle smokiness.
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped To brighten the finished dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions for al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked shredded chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes until warmed through and slightly golden.
  3. Stir in 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until the chicken is coated.
  4. In a separate saucepan, heat 1 cup of milk over medium heat. Gradually stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Gently fold in the BBQ chicken mixture and season to taste.
  6. Serve hot or transfer to an ovenproof dish, sprinkle extra mozzarella on top, and broil for 2-4 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Can be frozen for up to 2 months.