BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Imagine a symphony of smoky, sweet, and cheesy notes dancing on your taste buds. BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the culinary mashup you never knew you needed, but soon won’t be able to live without.

This isn’t your grandma’s mac and cheese; it’s a grown-up, flavor-packed adventure. This is a dish tailor-made for backyard barbecues, cozy weeknight dinners, or any occasion where comfort food meets bold flavor.

Here’s why this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese will become your new go-to:

• It’s surprisingly easy to make, using simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge.
• The combination of tender chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, and creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
• Visually stunning with its vibrant colors and cheesy topping, it’s a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
• Adaptable to your preferences – use your favorite barbecue sauce, add veggies, or swap out the cheese for a personalized touch.

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Chicken Breasts Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy shredding. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.

Elbow Macaroni The classic choice for mac and cheese! Feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi.

Cheddar Cheese Sharp cheddar provides a robust, cheesy flavor. You can also use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a milder taste.

Mozzarella Cheese Adds a stretchy, melty element to the mac and cheese. Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella works best.

BBQ Sauce Choose your favorite BBQ sauce – sweet, smoky, or spicy! It’s the star of the show, so pick one you truly love.

Butter Adds richness and flavor to the cheese sauce. Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the saltiness of the dish.

All-Purpose Flour Used to create a roux, which thickens the cheese sauce. Make sure to cook the flour thoroughly to avoid a starchy taste.

Milk The base of the cheese sauce, adding creaminess and moisture. Whole milk is recommended for the richest flavor, but you can use 2% or even almond milk.

Paprika Adds a touch of color and subtle smoky flavor. Smoked paprika will enhance the BBQ flavor even more.

Garlic Powder Provides a savory, aromatic element to the dish. Fresh garlic can also be used, but garlic powder is more convenient.

Onion Powder Complements the garlic powder and adds depth of flavor. A little goes a long way!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let cool slightly, then shred with two forks.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and set aside. Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Mac and Cheese

Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the cheesy sauce.

Step 5: Bake the Mac and Cheese

Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly and drizzle with your favorite BBQ sauce. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mac and cheese is bubbly and the top is lightly browned.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the mac and cheese cool slightly before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy this ultimate comfort food mashup!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To nail this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, start by searing the chicken for a delightful crust. While it rests, get your pasta boiling. Simultaneously, kick off the cheese sauce. Timing is everything to ensure all elements converge into cheesy, BBQ perfection.

Add Your Touch

Want to get wild? Swap in smoked turkey for the chicken or add a dash of chili powder for a spicy kick. Experiment with different cheeses in your sauce for a unique flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to make this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese your own!

Storing & Reheating

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Here are some tips for making the best BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ever:

• Don’t overcook the pasta! Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook in the cheesy sauce. Soggy pasta is nobody’s friend.

• Use a block of cheese and shred it yourself! Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.

• Don’t be shy with the BBQ sauce! Use your favorite brand and add enough to get that signature smoky-sweet flavor. It’s the star of the show!

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

My kiddo, a mac and cheese connoisseur, declared this the “best dinner ever.” That’s high praise coming from someone who usually only eats things shaped like dinosaurs.

Conclusion for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese :

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is comfort food elevated! It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining creamy mac and cheese with the smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can have a delicious, satisfying meal on the table in no time. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing for endless customization to suit your taste. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more!

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FAQs :

Can I use a different cheese for this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! This recipe is super flexible. While the blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a creamy, melty dream, you can totally swap them out. Gouda would add a smoky depth, Gruyere brings a nutty flavor, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Just make sure whatever cheese you choose melts well. Avoid hard cheeses like parmesan or dry aged cheese unless you’re adding them in small amounts for flavor, not for the cheesy base. Experiment and find your perfect cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese match!

How can I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese spicier?

Spice it up, buttercup! If you’re craving some heat, there are several ways to add a fiery punch to this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. You could mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce directly into the cheese sauce. Another option is to use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack. Diced jalapeños, either fresh or pickled, would also add a delightful kick. If you really want to bring the heat, consider using a spicy BBQ sauce to coat the chicken. Just remember to taste as you go, and adjust the spice level to your liking!

What kind of chicken works best in BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Leftover roasted chicken is a fantastic and efficient option! But don’t feel limited. Grilled chicken adds a smoky char that complements the BBQ sauce perfectly. You could even use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. For a deeper, richer flavor, try using chicken thighs instead of breasts. No matter what you choose, ensure the chicken is cooked through and shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Remember, the quality of your chicken impacts the overall flavor profile, so choose wisely!

Can I prepare this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Good news – you absolutely can! Assembling the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time is a great way to save time on a busy weeknight. Simply prepare the pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce as instructed, then combine everything in a baking dish. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.