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Delicious Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese served in a bowl

Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

A creamy, cheesy dish that combines traditional mac and cheese with a sweet BBQ twist, perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni For a gluten-free option, try quinoa or chickpea pasta.
Chicken
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonders here.
Sauce
  • 1 cup honey BBQ sauce Store-bought is great, but homemade works even better.
Cheese
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded Sharp cheddar gives a robust flavor; Monterey Jack or Gouda can be delicious alternatives.
Liquid
  • 1 cup milk Whole milk will give you a creamier texture; almond milk can suffice for a low-calorie option.
Fat
  • 2 tbsp butter Olive oil can be a healthier choice if desired.
Spices
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder Fresh minced garlic is a fantastic substitute.
  • to taste salt and pepper Feel free to add your favorite spices!
Garnish
  • Green onions Optional; adds a fresh, crunchy topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Cooking
  1. Add the cooked chicken and honey BBQ sauce, stirring until heated through.
  2. Pour in the milk and stir until well combined.
  3. Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, mixing everything together.
  4. Gradually add the cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  5. Combine the macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing until the pasta is well coated.
Serving
  1. Serve warm, garnished with green onions if desired.

Notes

For extra creaminess, consider adding cream cheese or a splash of sour cream. Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors.