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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

  • Author: Julia
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

Creamy, cheesy macaroni loaded with tender BBQ chicken and topped with a golden breadcrumb crust. This comfort food fusion combines two classics into one irresistible dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente, drain and set aside.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, toss shredded chicken with 3/4 cup BBQ sauce until well coated. Set aside.
  3. 3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 2 minutes until golden.
  4. 4. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until smooth. Cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
  5. 5. Remove from heat and stir in cream cheese until melted. Add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese gradually, stirring until smooth.
  6. 6. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  7. 7. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half the cooked macaroni, half the cheese sauce, and half the BBQ chicken. Repeat layers.
  8. 8. Mix panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.
  9. 9. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Broil for 2 minutes for extra crispiness.
  10. 10. Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with green onions and drizzle with remaining BBQ sauce before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut. Feel free to adjust BBQ sauce amount based on personal preference.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 585
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 890mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g

Keywords: bbq chicken mac and cheese, chicken mac and cheese, bbq mac and cheese, comfort food, pasta bake

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Find it online: https://www.differentyrecipes.com/bbq-chicken-mac-and-cheese/