Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) cooked pasta (penne or macaroni work great)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (preferably grilled or roasted)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, or additional BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Pre-cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. Shred the cooked chicken.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
- Pour in milk and stir. Gradually add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix shredded chicken into the cheese sauce, then stir in barbecue sauce until well combined.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Top with additional cheese if desired. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Make ahead: Prepare the dish, assemble, refrigerate, and bake later for a quicker dinner.
- For extra flavor, top with chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, or extra barbecue sauce before serving.
- You can substitute shredded turkey or pork for chicken for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg