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A creamy baked macaroni and cheese topped with smoky, tangy grilled chicken pieces and a golden crust, inviting comfort food scene.

Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Bake

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Experience the ultimate comfort food with Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese, a flavorful baked dish combining smoky BBQ chicken, creamy cheeses, and a hint of spice. Perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, this recipe delivers bold flavors and hearty textures in every bite.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (use leftover or rotisserie chicken)
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta
  • 1 cup smoky barbecue sauce
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in boiling, salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  3. Add barbecue sauce, sour cream, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add shredded chicken to the sauce, then fold in cooked pasta until coated.
  5. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded cheeses.
  6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
  • For a spicier version, add more chili powder or hot sauce.
  • Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated before baking.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Nut-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 520 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 950 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg