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–+ servings
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: Comfort Food with a Smoky Twist

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combines tender chicken with creamy, cheesy goodness for a comforting dish that’s ideal for family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitute with rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Olive oil can be used for a lighter option.
  • 2 tablespoons Flour Gluten-free flour works for those with dietary restrictions.
  • 2 cups Milk Whole milk is best, but low-fat or non-dairy alternatives can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be a wonderful substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Sautéed fresh onions can be an alternative for a fresher taste.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Cheesy Goodness
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Gouda can be a delicious substitute for a different twist.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Replace with fontina or skip for a lighter version.
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Macaroni Any small pasta shape like elbow or penne can be used.
For the BBQ Flavor
  • 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce Choose your favorite flavor for personalization.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Pot
  • whisk
  • colander
  • medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, add the chicken, and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces once cooled.
  2. Boil salted water in a large pot. Add macaroni and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk, garlic powder, and onion powder while whisking until thickened (3-4 minutes).
  4. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  5. Add shredded chicken and cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir in BBQ sauce and heat gently for 2-3 minutes until warm.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with extra BBQ sauce or herbs. Enjoy with garlic bread or salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

To enhance flavor, consider using freshly grated cheese and avoid boiling the cheese sauce after adding cheese to prevent separation.

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