### BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

**Description:**
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight that combines tender elbow macaroni with shredded BBQ chicken and a rich cheese sauce. Topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion!

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**Ingredients:**

– **Pasta:**
– 1 pound elbow macaroni

– **Chicken:**
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably BBQ-flavored)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)

– **Cheese Sauce:**
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 cups whole milk
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

– **Topping (optional):**
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (for breadcrumbs)
– Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)

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**Instructions:**

**1. Preparing the Pasta:**
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about a tablespoon of salt).
– Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (7-8 minutes).
– Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process.

**2. Making the Cheese Sauce:**
– In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat without browning it.
– Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
– Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking to avoid lumps, cooking until the mixture thickens (5-7 minutes).
– Reduce heat to low and add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
– Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

**3. Combining Chicken and BBQ Sauce:**
– In a separate bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until well-coated.
– Fold the BBQ chicken into the cheese sauce until well combined.

**4. Bringing It All Together:**
– Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese and chicken mixture, stirring gently to combine.
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
– Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

**5. Optional Breadcrumb Topping:**
– If desired, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil in a small bowl until well-coated.
– Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.

**6. Baking the Dish:**
– Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
– Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.

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**Notes:**
– Feel free to adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on your taste preference.
– For a spicier kick, consider adding some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

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**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 30 minutes
**Total Time:** 45 minutes
**Yield:** 6-8 servings

Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese!