BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese (Printable Version)
Smoky, creamy pasta with tender chicken pieces and rich cheese sauce infused with tangy BBQ flavors – the ultimate comfort food upgrade.
# The Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Pasta and Protein
01 - 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
02 - 1 lb (450g) cooked chicken breast, shredded
→ Cheese Sauce
03 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
05 - 1 cup low-fat milk
→ Flavorings
06 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
07 - 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
08 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - Salt and pepper to taste
12 - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 - Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
03 - Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly.
04 - In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Add the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
05 - Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Fold in the BBQ chicken mixture and continue stirring until well integrated.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
# Additional Tips::
01 -
- Ready in under 30 minutes - perfect for busy weeknights
- Combines two beloved comfort foods in one delicious dish
- High in protein (40g per serving) to keep you satisfied
- Uses pantry staples and leftovers for easy preparation
- Meal-prep friendly for quick lunches throughout the week
02 -
- BBQ sauce contains natural antioxidants from tomatoes and spices
- This dish provides complete protein with all essential amino acids
- Mac and cheese has been comfort food in America since the 1930s
- The combination of proteins and carbohydrates makes this an excellent post-workout meal
- Cheese provides calcium and vitamin D for bone health