Description
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a mouthwatering fusion of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and smoky barbecue flavors. This dish is not just comfort food; it’s a celebration of taste that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. With its golden crust and delightful cheesiness, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is sure to impress at any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 tbsp salted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken with salt and pepper; bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
- Boil water in a large pot; cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; whisk in flour until combined. Gradually add milk while stirring until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces; mix with cheese sauce and barbecue sauce until well-coated.
- Gently fold cooked macaroni into the mixture; transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg