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–+ servings
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese - A Smoky Comfort Food Delight

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting twist on a classic dish, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitution: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience!
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup BBQ Sauce Choose your favorite flavor: sweet, smoky, or tangy.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Opt for unsalted butter for better sodium control.
  • 2 tablespoons Flour Substitution: Cornstarch is a great gluten-free option.
  • 2 cups Milk Feel free to use low-fat or plant-based milk if you prefer.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic works well for an extra kick.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onion can be a good substitute too!
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Macaroni Any short pasta shape can work just as wonderfully!
For the Cheesy Bliss
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Substitute with gouda or pepper jack for a twist.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Feel free to skip it for a lighter option.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Medium saucepan
  • large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat, add the chicken, and cook until browned and cooked through. Shred the chicken.
  2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually pour in milk, whisking continuously until thickened.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Combine cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, and cheese sauce in a bowl. Stir in BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
  6. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with extra BBQ sauce or fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 32gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 600mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For the best results, ensure cheese melts fully and consider using rotisserie chicken for faster prep.

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