Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake

Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake 🍗🧀🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish that combines smoky zest with creamy cheese, then this BBQ chicken mac and cheese recipe is perfect for you. This chicken pasta bake infuses the comfort of classic mac and cheese with a smoky twist and tender chunks of BBQ chicken, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser that can be prepared in under an hour. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating your family to a delicious dinner, this recipe has everything you need for a mouthwatering meal.

2. Ingredients for Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese

• 2 cups cooked shredded BBQ chicken (more chicken recipes)
• 3 cups cooked macaroni or your favorite pasta
• 1 cup smoky barbecue sauce
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
• Optional: diced jalapeños for extra heat

3. Step-by-Step Preparation of Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese

Start by prepping the ingredients

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Shred your cooked BBQ chicken and gather all remaining ingredients for a smooth workflow.

Mix the cheese sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, barbecue sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.

Combine the ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and shredded BBQ chicken into the sauce mixture. Toss to coat evenly.

Assemble and bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot. For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding diced jalapeños before baking.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until heated through, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess. You can also re-bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes for a fresh, oven-crisped top.

5. Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

This smoky chicken mac and cheese pairs beautifully with simple side salads, roasted vegetables, or cornbread. For a more hearty meal, serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh fruit salad. For beverage options, consider a cold Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker to keep your drinks chilled and refreshing during dinner.

6. FAQs about Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of BBQ chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and provides similar tender, flavorful meat, making this recipe even quicker to prepare.

What are some substitutions for cheese?

You can substitute mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor profiles. For a dairy-free version, try using vegan cheese options.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 40-45 minutes, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Ensure all sauces and ingredients are certified gluten-free.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – Perfect for cooking and shredding chicken evenly, giving you tender meat for your pasta bake.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Makes chopping vegetables or prepping ingredients quick and easy, ideal if you want to add extra toppings or sides.
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – Enables quick roasting or baking to finish your dish with a crispy top or to cook sides.
• KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer – Useful for mixing sauces or even preparing homemade cheese or pasta if you want to make from scratch.

8. Explore more delicious dinner ideas

Looking for additional inspiration? Check out our collection of delicious dinner recipes or explore similar chicken-based dishes.

9. Conclusion

This smoky tangy chicken mac and cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. Combining smoky BBQ flavors with creamy cheese and tender chicken, it’s a perfect mac and cheese recipe for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a flavorful homemade dish that satisfies every craving. Try making it tonight and impress your family and friends with this irresistible chicken pasta bake!

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