Description
Experience ultimate comfort with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese! Tangy BBQ chicken meets creamy, cheesy pasta. Easy prep for al dente macaroni and flavorful chicken ensures a delightful dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded or diced cooked chicken with the BBQ sauce, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Set aside.
- Step 3: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Step 4: Gradually whisk in the whole milk until no lumps remain. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Reduce heat to low, then slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Add the cooked macaroni and the BBQ chicken mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly combined and coated.
- Step 6: Serve immediately for a creamy mac and cheese, or transfer to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden.
Notes
- Leftovers are a treat! Store any remaining mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To bring back that creamy goodness, gently reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Elevate this comforting meal by serving it alongside a fresh, crisp coleslaw or a simple green salad to cut through the richness.
- For the silkiest cheese sauce, always add your shredded cheeses gradually off the heat or on very low, stirring until fully melted and smooth, to prevent a grainy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups (approx. 320g)
- Calories: 850
- Sodium: 1050mg
- Fat: 48g
- Saturated Fat: 28g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 16g