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The Ultimate Comfort Food: BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese You’ll Make on Repeat

The Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

If comfort food had a king, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese would take the throne. Creamy, cheesy pasta meets smoky, tangy BBQ chicken for a dish that’s indulgent yet packed with protein. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s a surefire way to get everyone smiling around the table.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 lb (450g) cooked and shredded chicken breast

  • 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)

  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shredded chicken and cook 2–3 minutes until warmed through.

  • Stir in BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix to coat the chicken evenly.

  • In a separate saucepan, heat milk over medium heat. Gradually stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

  • Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Fold in the BBQ chicken mixture, mixing until everything is evenly coated.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, sauté the chicken with a little smoked paprika or chili powder before adding BBQ sauce.

  • Use a mix of cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a richer, creamier sauce.

  • For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then broil for 2–3 minutes.

  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat well with a splash of milk.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://biteseason.com/the-ultimate-comfort-food-bbq-chicken-mac-and-cheese-youll-make-on-repeat/

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