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+ servings
BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese

Irresistible BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese for Comfort Food Lovers

This BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese blends tender barbecue chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta for a comforting dish perfect for any weeknight meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Macaroni Cook until al dente
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with olive oil
  • ¼ cup Flour Swap for gluten-free flour if needed
  • 2 cups Milk Almond or oat milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Substitute with Monterey Jack or smoked gouda
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese Use ricotta as a lighter option
For the Chicken and Flavor
  • 1 cup BBQ Sauce Use your favorite blend
  • to taste Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder) Adjust according to preference
Optional Ingredients
  • 1 bunch Green Onions For garnish
  • 1 cup Vegetables (e.g., bell peppers) Stir in for added nutrition

Equipment

  • Oven
  • large pot
  • medium saucepan
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add the macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk until thickened. Stir in cheddar and cream cheese until melted.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the drained macaroni, diced BBQ chicken, and cheese sauce. Fold together until macaroni is coated.
  5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top if desired.
  6. Bake for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Check towards the end to avoid burning.
  7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This dish can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge before baking. Reheat for ease of serving.

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