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A hearty baked dish of creamy mac and cheese topped with smoky, tangy chicken chunks and melted cheese, served steaming on a rustic plate.

Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Smoky Tangy Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake. This hearty dish combines tender BBQ chicken, smoky cheese sauce, and creamy pasta for a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings. With its rich, smoky, and tangy flavors, this baked chicken mac and cheese is sure to become a family favorite.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked and shredded BBQ chicken (see our oven-crisped chicken strips for crispy chicken tips)
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
  • 1 cup shredded smoked cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (for extra smoky flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, combine heavy cream, sour cream, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium-low until warm, then gradually add shredded cheeses, stirring constantly until smooth and melted.
  3. Stir the shredded BBQ chicken into the cheese sauce. Mix in the cooked pasta and BBQ sauce for added smoky flavor. Ensure everything is evenly coated.
  4. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Notes

  • Feel free to experiment with different cheese types like pepper jack or smoked gouda for varied flavor.
  • Use leftover rotisserie chicken for quick preparation.
  • Make it spicy by adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
  • Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Andalusia, Gluten-Free (optional)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 510 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg
  • Fat: 29 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 26 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg