BBQ Glazed Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup barbecue sauce

For the Mac & Cheese:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
– Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.

4. Brush the barbecue sauce over the chicken and let it cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize. Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing.

5. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about a minute until it forms a smooth paste.

6. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking, ensuring there are no lumps. Let it simmer until it thickens.

7. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, salt, black pepper, paprika, and mustard powder. Mix until the cheese is melted and smooth.

8. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.

9. Serve the creamy mac & cheese in a bowl, top with sliced BBQ-glazed chicken, and garnish with chopped parsley.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Kcal: 550 per serving | Servings: 2-3