Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

15 minutes Prep Time
30 minutes Cook Time
6 Servings

This Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and slightly spicy flavors. The addition of Red Gold Mild Diced Tomatoes + Green Chilies brings a subtle kick and extra flavor to the cheese sauce. Layered with saucy shredded BBQ chicken and topped with crispy bacon and melty cheese, this is the ultimate comfort food upgrade. @cookingwithcaitlynskitchen @thefeedfeed (5/29/26)

Ingredients

  • FOR THE BBQ CHICKEN
  • 1 pound cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • FOR THE MAC & CHEESE
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 can evaporated milk 12 oz
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 16 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 8 ounces shredded smoked Gouda cheese
  • 8 ounces mozzarella cheese

  • 1 Red Gold Canned Mild Diced Tomatoes + Green Chilies 10 oz, drained

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground mustard
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • TOPPINGS (LOADED STYLE)
  • 6 to 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 8 ounces shredded Colby Jack cheese
  • extra barbecue sauce
  • 2 to 3 green onions, sliced

Instructions

Step one

In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce until fully coated. Set aside.

Step two

Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step three

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the evaporated milk and heavy cream until smooth.

Step four

Stir in the sharp cheddar, smoked Gouda, and mozzarella until melted and creamy. Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, ground mustard, and black pepper. Stir in the drained Red Gold Mild Diced Tomatoes + Green Chilies.

Step five

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.

Step six

In a greased baking dish, add the mac and cheese. Layer the BBQ chicken on top, then drizzle with more barbecue sauce and sprinkle with the shredded Colby Jack cheese.

Step seven

Bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes, until bubbly and melted. Then broil on high for 1 to 2 minutes. Top with barbecue sauce, bacon, and green onions before serving.

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