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Mouth-watering image of a delicious Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese dish.

Irresistible Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

This recipe for Irresistible Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combines tender, smoky shredded chicken with a creamy, cheesy sauce and al dente pasta for a comforting and flavor-packed dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 715
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Gouda cheese
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • large pot
  • Large saucepan
  • whisk
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch)
  • fork
  • measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a slow cooker, place the chicken breasts and pour the BBQ sauce over the top. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
  4. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, and continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gouda cheeses until melted and smooth.
  7. Add the cooked macaroni, shredded BBQ chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
  8. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For maximum tenderness and flavor, be sure to slow cook the chicken in the BBQ sauce. The roux-based cheese sauce ensures a velvety, cling-worthy texture that coats the pasta perfectly. The blend of sharp cheddar and creamy Gouda cheeses creates an indulgent, flavor-packed dish. Seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika enhances the savory notes. Enjoy this comforting and irresistible Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese!