Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon
A close-up of a bowl of smoky tangy chicken mac and cheese topped with chopped herbs and crispy chicken pieces, showcasing a cheesy and flavorful dish.

Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Comfort Food Masterpiece

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Discover the hearty and flavorful Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese, a comforting baked pasta dish that combines smoky spices, tangy barbecue sauce, tender shredded chicken, and gooey cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or sharing with family and friends, this recipe delivers a delightful fusion of smoky, cheesy, and tangy flavors in every bite.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (preferably BBQ chicken)
  • 1 cup smoky barbecue sauce (preferably hickory or mesquite flavored)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup milk or heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped green onions or jalapeños for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside. Toss the cooked shredded chicken with a cup of smoky barbecue sauce to infuse flavor.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent and fragrant. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Pour in the milk or heavy cream, stirring constantly. Gradually add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
  4. Combine the barbecue chicken with the pasta, then fold into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is coated with the smoky, tangy flavor.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

  • For a crispier topping, sprinkle additional cheese or breadcrumbs before baking.
  • Adjust the level of smokiness by choosing a barbecue sauce that suits your taste—sweet, tangy, or spicy.
  • Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavor twists.
  • Use shredded cooked chicken, preferably smoked or BBQ-style, for authentic smoky flavor.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking, Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Includes Dairy, Contains Meat

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 560 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 870 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 54 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 33 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg

Find it online: https://spoonella.com/smoky-tangy-chicken-mac-and-cheese-a-comfort-food-masterpiece/