Name: The Ultimate Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Dreamy Comfort Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice; 2 cups cooked BBQ chicken, shredded; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups milk; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup smoky BBQ sauce; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional toppings: chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits

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The Ultimate Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Dreamy Comfort Dish 🧀🔥🍗

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that combines smoky, tangy, and cheesy goodness, then this BBQ chicken mac and cheese recipe is just what you need. Combining tender chicken, rich cheese sauce, and a smoky kick, this dish elevates the classic comfort food into a spectacular culinary experience. Perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings, this chicken pasta bake is sure to become a family favorite. Read on to discover how to create this irresistible dish from scratch!

2. Ingredients

12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
2 cups cooked BBQ chicken, shredded
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups milk
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 cup smoky BBQ sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make This Delicious Mac and Cheese Recipe

Prepare the Pasta

Cook the pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened.

Add the Cheeses and Seasonings

Reduce heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, smoky BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until cheeses are melted and smooth.

Combine Chicken and Pasta

Add the shredded BBQ chicken and cooked pasta into the saucepan. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated in the cheesy, smoky sauce. For extra flavor, you can integrate some internal links with chicken pasta bake tips or check out biscuits to serve alongside.

Optional: Bake for a Crispy Top

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with additional cheese or breadcrumbs if desired. Bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

4. Storage Tips

Allow the smoky tangy chicken mac and cheese to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of milk before reheating to maintain creaminess.

5. Serving Suggestions

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. For an added crunch, sprinkle chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits on top. You can also serve it with garlic bread for the perfect comfort meal experience.

6. FAQs about This Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked BBQ chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient substitute that adds juicy flavor. Just shred and mix it into the cheese sauce for the same delicious result.

What cheese can I use if I don’t have Monterey Jack?

You can substitute Monterey Jack with Pepper Jack, mozzarella, or a mild cheddar for a different but equally tasty version of this chicken pasta bake.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total preparation time, including cooking the pasta and assembling the dish, is approximately 30 minutes. Baking adds an extra 15-20 minutes depending on your oven setup.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate. When ready, bake directly from the fridge for about 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Offers durable, nonstick cookware that makes preparing sauces and boiling pasta easy and mess-free, enhancing your cooking experience.
Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Perfect for shredding cooked chicken or prepping vegetables to garnish your leftovers.
Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – Use it to keep your cooked chicken warm or to prepare your chicken in advance.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Cool drinks served alongside this cheesy pasta to complement the smoky flavors.

8. Extracurricular Pairings and Variations

Looking to spice things up? Add a dash of hot sauce, a smoky paprika blend, or even jalapeños for extra heat. For a healthier twist, incorporate more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the mac and cheese. This dish adapts well to your personal taste preferences!

9. Conclusion

There’s no better comfort food than a hearty BBQ chicken mac and cheese that combines smoky, tangy, and cheesy flavors in each bite. This chicken pasta bake is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy it straight from the stove or baked to perfection, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Try this recipe today and enjoy a culinary masterpiece that’s bound to become a family favorite!

The Ultimate Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Dreamy Comfort Dish