Description
Enjoy a comforting dish of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, featuring tender elbow macaroni mixed with shredded chicken and a creamy cheese sauce, all topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie chicken)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 3 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 olive oil (if using breadcrumbs)
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously until smooth and thickened (5-7 minutes).
- Reduce heat to low, add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Gradually stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce. Fold into the cheese sauce until well combined.
- Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the baking dish, spreading evenly. Reserve some cheese for topping if desired.
- Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil until coated. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes