Smoky Southern Mac & Cheese with Tangy BBQ Chicken

Smoky Southern Mac & Cheese with Tangy BBQ Chicken 🍗🧀🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that combines the rich creaminess of classic mac and cheese with the smoky zest of Southern barbecue, then this Smoky Southern Mac & Cheese with Tangy BBQ Chicken is the perfect recipe for you. This chicken pasta bake features tender juicy chicken, smoky spices, and a cheesy sauce that will satisfy every cheese lover and BBQ enthusiast alike. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual weekend feast, this dish hits all the right notes.

2. Ingredients for Smoky BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

  • 1 lb (450g) macaroni or pasta of choice
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably BBQ seasoned)
  • 1 cup smoky BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

3. How to Make Smoky Southern Mac & Cheese with Tangy BBQ Chicken

Preparation of the Ingredients

Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If your chicken isn’t already cooked, cook and shred it, then toss it with the BBQ sauce for added flavor.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the Cheese Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring to combine and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream or milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.

Combine and Season

Stir in the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked pasta and BBQ chicken, mixing well to coat everything evenly with the cheesy sauce.

Bake for a Crispy Top (Optional)

If you prefer a baked version, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Mac and Cheese with BBQ Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. To keep it creamy, consider adding a splash of milk during reheating.

5. Serving Suggestions for this Chicken Pasta Bake

This smoky BBQ chicken mac and cheese pairs beautifully with a side of steamed greens, roasted vegetables, or a crisp garden salad. For an extra punch of flavor, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.

6. Variations and Substitutions

  • To make it gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free options like chickpea or rice pasta.
  • For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the smoked paprika and use a sweeter BBQ sauce.
  • Vegan version: Use plant-based cheese, chicken substitutes, and dairy-free milk.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken adds flavor and convenience. Toss it with BBQ sauce before adding it to the pasta.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total time, including cooking pasta and chicken, is approximately 40-45 minutes.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it unbaked. Bake it later, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if chilled.

8. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe

9. Conclusion

This Smoky Southern Mac & Cheese with Tangy BBQ Chicken offers a delightful twist on the traditional mac and cheese, infusing it with smoky flavors and a tangy kick. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines comfort, bold flavor, and hearty satisfaction in every bite. Try this recipe for your next dinner or weekend gathering and enjoy the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and smoky goodness!

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Creamy smoky Mac and Cheese topped with juicy BBQ chicken and melted cheese

Smoky Southern Mac & Cheese with Tangy BBQ Chicken

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Smoky Southern Mac & Cheese with Tangy BBQ Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines creamy cheese sauce with smoky BBQ seasoned chicken, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings. This recipe blends rich cheese with smoky spices and tangy BBQ flavor for a hearty, satisfying meal that delights cheese lovers and BBQ enthusiasts alike.

  • Total Time: 45 mins
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) macaroni or pasta of choice
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably BBQ seasoned)
  • 1 cup smoky BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Toss shredded chicken with BBQ sauce if not already cooked.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle flour over sautéed onions and garlic, stir to combine, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in heavy cream or milk, stirring constantly until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add shredded cheeses; stir until melted and smooth. Mix in smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Add cooked pasta and BBQ chicken, mixing well to coat evenly with the cheese sauce.
  6. If baking, transfer to a greased dish, sprinkle additional cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Serve hot garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

  • For gluten-free, substitute pasta with gluten-free options like chickpea or rice pasta.
  • Adjust smoked paprika and BBQ sauce level based on flavor preference.
  • For vegan, use plant-based cheese, chicken substitutes, and dairy-free milk.
  • Leftover mac and cheese can be stored airtight in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop and oven
  • Cuisine: Southern American
  • Diet: Contains Dairy and Meat

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 520 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 890 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 55 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg

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