Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works great. Just coat it with BBQ sauce before adding to the mac and cheese.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne or cavatappi also work well, as they hold the sauce similarly to elbow macaroni.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fusion dish that combines creamy, cheesy macaroni with tender, smoky barbecue chicken, creating a hearty and flavorful comfort food.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Chicken breast – Lean protein that absorbs BBQ flavor.
BBQ sauce – Smoky and tangy, adds a bold barbecue kick.
Elbow macaroni – Holds the creamy cheese sauce well.
Sharp cheddar cheese – Rich and sharp, the backbone of the cheese sauce.
Mozzarella cheese – Mild and stretchy, enhances the creamy texture.
Butter – Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce.
Flour – Thickening agent to create a smooth sauce.
Whole milk – Creamy base for a rich and velvety sauce.
Onion powder – Mild, savory note that complements the cheese.
Garlic powder – Aromatic depth to balance the cheesy flavor.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasoning to balance the dish.

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Instructions

Season chicken with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Cook until fully done and shred. Coat with BBQ sauce and set aside.
Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large pot, melt butter and add flour to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk to create a smooth sauce.
Add cheddar and mozzarella to the sauce, stirring until melted. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and gently fold in the BBQ chicken.
Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese if desired, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
Opt for a slightly sweet BBQ sauce to balance the savory cheese.
Cover the dish during baking if the top browns too quickly.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 620
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 950mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Find it online: https://recipeshots.com/bbq-chicken-mac-and-cheese/