Smoked Cheddar BBQ Chicken Mac

How to make Smoked Cheddar BBQ Chicken Mac Recipe - My sister has told me on numerous occasions that this is one of her favorite recipes of mine. I remember developing this recipe in my Arizona kitchen a few years ago, just knowing it was going to be delicious. Shredded BBQ chicken is baked right on top of creamy, smoky mac and cheese. Check your grocery store’s refrigerated section for prepared shredded BBQ chicken, if you are short on time. Enjoy with a simple salad.

Ingredients:
1 pound small dry pasta of your choice
5 tablespoons butter
5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 cups 2% milk
6 cups shredded smoked cheddar cheese, divided
2 cups shredded cooked chicken breast
1⁄2 cup prepared BBQ sauce

Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, drain, run under cold water to stop the cooking, and set aside.

3. Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the flour, salt, and pepper and cook, whisking for 1 minute. Slowly add the milk, whisking until smooth. Increase the heat to medium high, stirring continuously until the liquid thickens and comes to a low boil, about 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and add 5 cups of the cheese, stirring until smooth and melted. Add the cooked pasta and stir to combine. Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish.

4. Add the chicken and BBQ sauce to a medium bowl and stir to combine. Spread the chicken evenly over the mac and cheese, then sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until cheese is melted, and serve immediately.