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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish, combining savory chicken with creamy cheese for a quick and satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts The main protein source that becomes tender and absorbs BBQ flavor.
  • 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce Adds a tangy, smoky richness.
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Macaroni Any short pasta shape works well.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Sharp cheddar takes it to the next level.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese For that irresistible gooey texture.
  • 2 cups Milk Try almond milk for a lactose-free alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds rich flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Flour Thickens the cheese sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • large pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Sear each side for 6-7 minutes until cooked through. Remove and shred the chicken.
  2. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually stir in milk, thicken for 3-4 minutes until creamy.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Return to the skillet, combine shredded chicken and pasta with cheese sauce. Add BBQ sauce to taste, mixing well.
  6. Serve hot in bowls with additional BBQ sauce or fresh herbs as garnish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For extra flavor, drizzle additional BBQ sauce before serving. For a quicker meal, substitute rotisserie chicken for raw chicken. Customize spiciness with jalapeños or hot BBQ sauce.

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