Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) cooked chicken breasts or thighs, shredded
- 3 cups cooked elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (preferably honey smoky flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by grilling or baking chicken until fully cooked, then shred it into desired sizes. Meanwhile, cook the pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in milk or heavy cream until the mixture thickens. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Add shredded BBQ chicken and cooked pasta into the sauce. Stir well to combine. Mix in shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, allowing them to melt into a creamy, smoky sauce.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Add extra BBQ sauce if desired, top with additional shredded cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Use smoky honey BBQ sauce for authentic flavor.
- Shred chicken finely for better texture and even distribution.
- Feel free to customize with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
- For added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips on top before baking.
- Prepare in advance and refrigerate overnight to meld flavors for optimal taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Saucing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 125mg