BBQ Chipotle Ranch Chicken & White Cheddar Mac

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Velvety white cheddar mac meets a smoky, spicy twist in this BBQ Chipotle Ranch Chicken & White Cheddar Mac. The rich, creamy texture of the pasta is infused with sharp cheddar and mellowed by a splash of milk, while the tender chunks of seared chicken soak up a bold blend of BBQ sauce, zesty ranch, and smoky chipotle heat. Each bite bursts with layered flavor—cheesy, spicy, tangy, and satisfyingly hearty.

This dish is the perfect comfort food with a punch—ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or easy meal prep for a flavor-packed lunch. It’s a dream dish for cheese lovers, spice fans, and anyone who craves something a little indulgent yet easy to make. You won’t believe how quickly this meal comes together, and it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your rotation.

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Ingredients for BBQ Chipotle Ranch Chicken & White Cheddar Mac

• 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)
• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 cup chipotle BBQ sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1/3 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
• Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni (or cavatappi) according to the package directions. Drain and set aside. Drizzle a little olive oil over the cooked pasta to prevent sticking if desired.

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Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Sauté the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Make sure the chicken is tender with a lightly crisp edge.

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Step 3: Add the Sauces

Lower the heat to medium, then add the chipotle BBQ sauce and ranch dressing to the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together, letting the flavors coat the meat evenly. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the sauce thicken slightly.

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Step 4: Make it Cheesy

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Pour in the milk and sprinkle the shredded white cheddar cheese over everything. Stir gently until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce, wrapping every piece of pasta and chicken in gooey goodness.

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Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the BBQ Chipotle Ranch Chicken & White Cheddar Mac into bowls. Top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy immediately!

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Storage Instructions

To keep your BBQ Chipotle Ranch Chicken & White Cheddar Mac tasting fresh, follow these simple storage tips:

• Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing.
• Freezer: You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge first.
• Reheating: Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 890mg
• Sugar: 5g
• Fiber: 2g

Note: Nutrition may vary based on exact ingredients and serving size.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly. Just shred or chop it and stir it in with the sauce.

2. Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a mild heat from the chipotle BBQ sauce, but it’s not overwhelming. You can tone it down or heat it up by adjusting the sauce.

3. What pasta shape works best?

Elbow macaroni and cavatappi are ideal, but shells or penne also work great because they hold sauce well.

4. Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check your sauces for any hidden gluten.

5. What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?

A smoky chipotle-style BBQ sauce is key. If you prefer sweet or tangy, feel free to use your favorite and add a pinch of chipotle powder.

6. How do I make this vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for roasted cauliflower or sautéed mushrooms, and use vegetarian-friendly BBQ sauce.

7. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble everything, refrigerate, and reheat just before serving. Add a little extra milk when reheating to refresh the sauce.

8. What sides go well with this meal?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies complement this dish beautifully.

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