BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Ultra-creamy macaroni and cheese loaded with tender BBQ chicken, smoky spices, and melted cheese a bold, comforting twist on a classic favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Author: ssam
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- 1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- 2. In a saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted.
- 3. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- 4. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
- 5. Stir in BBQ sauce, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- 6. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
- 7. Fold in cooked chicken and macaroni until fully coated.
- 8. Remove from heat, garnish with green onions, and serve hot.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Swap cheddar for smoked gouda for extra smoky flavor.
- Add crispy bacon bits for an indulgent upgrade.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: BBQ chicken mac and cheese, barbecue chicken pasta, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food