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A creamy baked mac and cheese dish topped with smoky, tangy chicken pieces and melted cheese, served in a baking dish.

The Ultimate Comforting Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake

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Experience the ultimate comfort food with our Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, smoky BBQ flavor, and creamy cheese sauce baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or cozy weekends, it’s a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful fusion that will satisfy every craving. Enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal with bold flavors and a comforting texture in every bite.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably grilled or smoked)
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
  • 1 cup smoky BBQ sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped green onions and cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Mix in shredded chicken and BBQ sauce, cooking for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
  3. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, Parmesan, and cheddar. Warm over low heat, stirring until cheeses melt and sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Add cooked pasta to the chicken and sauce mixture, stirring well to coat evenly. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Garnish with green onions and cilantro if desired.

Notes

  • Use smoked or grilled shredded chicken for the best smoky flavor.
  • You can add steamed vegetables like broccoli or corn for extra nutrition and texture.
  • Try substituting different cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta options.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 510 Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 690mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg