Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Deliciously Cheesy Comfort Food Recipe

Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings comfort food to a whole new level. Imagine creamy, cheesy pasta enveloped in the smoky sweetness of barbecue chicken—it’s a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart. This recipe has roots in American cuisine, where the love for both mac and cheese and BBQ is deeply ingrained in our culinary traditions. Over the years, I’ve found that people adore this dish not just for its rich taste and creamy texture, but also for its convenience; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, it will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Boil Water**: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta.

2. **Cook the Macaroni**: Once the water is boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. **Drain and Rinse**: After the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Making the Cheese Sauce

4. **Melt the Butter**: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Make sure it doesn’t brown; we just want it melted.

5. **Add Flour**: Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken your cheese sauce.

6. **Pour in the Milk**: Gradually add the 2 cups of milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

7. **Season the Sauce**: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

8. **Add the Cheese**: Lower the heat to medium-low and add the 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.

Combining Chicken and BBQ Sauce

9. **Mix Chicken and BBQ Sauce**: In a separate bowl, combine the 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken with the 1 cup of BBQ sauce. Mix well until the chicken is fully coated.

10. **Combine with Cheese Sauce**: Add the BBQ chicken mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well combined and the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the sauce.

Bringing It All Together

11. **Combine Pasta and Sauce**: Add the drained macaroni to the BBQ chicken and cheese sauce mixture. Stir gently to ensure that all the pasta is coated with the delicious sauce.

12. **Prepare for Baking**: If you’re using breadcrumbs, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

13. **Add Breadcrumbs (Optional)**: If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle the 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.

Baking the Dish

14. **Bake**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

15. **Garnish**: Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

16. **Serve**: Scoop generous portions onto plates or into bowls. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering.

17. **Pairing**: I love serving this with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to balance out the richness of the mac and cheese.

18. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Re

Conclusion:

In summary, this Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their comfort food game. The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with the smoky, tangy flavors of BBQ chicken creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a casual get-together with friends, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress.

For serving suggestions, consider topping your mac and cheese with crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added texture. You can also experiment with variations by swapping out the BBQ chicken for pulled pork or even a vegetarian option like roasted vegetables or jackfruit for a delightful twist.

I encourage you to give this Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese a try and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative variations you come up with. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!

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