Name: Smoky Zesty BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably BBQ-flavored); 8 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta; 1 cup smoky BBQ sauce; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream; 2 tbsp butter; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

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Smoky Zesty BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Dish 🍗🧀🔥

1. Introduction

Welcome to a delectable world where smoky, spicy, and cheesy flavors collide in the most irresistible way. This BBQ chicken mac and cheese combines tender chunks of barbecue-infused chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta, creating a ultimate comfort dish perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of classic mac and cheese recipes or looking for a new chicken pasta bake to impress guests, this recipe delivers unbeatable flavor and satisfying textures. Let’s dive into making this flavorful, smoky, and zesty BBQ chicken mac & cheese that will quickly become a family favorite.

2. Ingredients for Smoky Zesty BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably BBQ-flavored)
8 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
1 cup smoky BBQ sauce
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

3. How to Prepare the Smoky Zesty BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the BBQ Chicken

If your chicken isn’t pre-cooked, you can quickly cook chicken breasts or thighs and toss them with a little BBQ sauce. For a shortcut, shred cooked store-bought rotisserie chicken and mix with BBQ sauce for added flavor.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot or a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent. Stir in smoked paprika and cayenne pepper for that smoky zest. Pour in milk or heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add shredded cheeses, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Mix the cooked pasta and shredded BBQ chicken into the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Add more BBQ sauce if you prefer extra smoky flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and serve hot.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Store leftover BBQ chicken mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess. For longer storage, consider freezing in portions for up to 2 months.

5. Serving Suggestions for this Delicious Chicken Pasta Bake

This mac and cheese recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. For an extra flavor boost, serve with a side of garlic bread or garlic bread boats. It’s perfect for casual family dinners or weekend comfort food feasts.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this chicken pasta bake a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I substitute the cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda for a different flavor profile.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the pasta with gluten-free varieties and ensure the BBQ sauce used is gluten-free.

How long does it take to make this dish?

The entire process takes approximately 30–40 minutes, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — makes cooking and cleaning a breeze, ensuring your cheese melts perfectly without sticking.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — perfect for making refreshing beverages to serve alongside your smoky chicken & cheese bake.
Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — helps prep ingredients quickly, saving you time in the kitchen.
Ninja Mega Kitchen Power System — great for blending, chopping, and creating smooth sauces.

8. Additional Tips for the Perfect BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Adjust the level of spiciness by varying cayenne pepper or using a milder BBQ sauce.
For a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed fried onions and bake for 10 minutes at 375°F.
Experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor to your liking.

9. Conclusion

This smoky zesty BBQ chicken mac & cheese is a hearty, flavorful twist on classic comfort food. Combining tender chicken, smoky BBQ flavors, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend feast, this dish will impress with its rich taste and creamy texture. Ready to try it? Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy a guaranteed hit with family and friends!

Smoky Zesty BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Dish