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The Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Comfort Food Classic

The Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Comfort Food Classic
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This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect marriage of creamy mac, smoky BBQ flavors, and tender shredded chicken. Packed with protein and rich cheesy goodness, it’s a quick 25-minute meal that feels indulgent but fuels you with flavor and comfort. Whether for family dinner or meal prep, this dish is a high-protein twist on a classic favorite that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cooked & shredded

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred)

  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Add shredded chicken and warm through (2–3 min).

  3. Stir in BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt & pepper. Coat well.

  4. In a separate saucepan, heat milk over medium. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until smooth.

  5. Add pasta to the cheese sauce, mixing to coat. Fold in the BBQ chicken mixture.

  6. Adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken or leftovers for a faster prep.

  • Add crispy bacon bits or sautéed onions for extra flavor.

  • Stores well in the fridge up to 3 days—great for meal prep!

Nutrition

Find it online: https://biteseason.com/the-ultimate-bbq-chicken-mac-and-cheese-a-comfort-food-classic/

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