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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Comfort Food Game Changer

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a hearty dish that combines smoky BBQ flavor with creamy cheese, perfect for satisfying your cravings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni a classic choice for creamy mac and cheese
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter adds richness to the sauce
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour thickens the sauce
  • 3 cups milk use whole milk for a richer flavor
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese gives a sharp flavor
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese contributes a gooey texture
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder enhances the flavor profile
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder complements the garlic
  • to taste salt and pepper essential for seasoning
For the Chicken Mixture
  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast use rotisserie chicken for convenience
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce the star ingredient
For the Toppings
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs optional for a crunchy finish
  • to taste sliced green onions for garnish
  • to taste chopped fresh parsley optional for a pop of color

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Saucepan
  • Baking Dish
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cook the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente.
  2. In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter and stir in the all-purpose flour to make a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer until thickened.
  4. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted.
  5. Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, coating it evenly.
  7. Mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce and incorporate it into the macaroni and cheese.
  8. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle with breadcrumbs if desired.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
  10. Let cool for 10 minutes, then garnish with green onions and parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Allow some time for the flavors to meld after baking for optimal taste.

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