BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Amazing Recipe

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful fusion that brings comfort food to new heights. Imagine creamy, cheesy goodness combined with smoky BBQ chicken, all enveloped in perfectly cooked macaroni. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the heart. As soon as you take your first bite, you’ll be hooked by the wonderful blend of flavors and textures that this recipe offers.
This incredible combination is perfect for gathering friends and family, whether for a festive celebration or a cozy weeknight dinner. Each forkful holds a delicious mix of creamy cheese sauce and tender, juicy chicken infused with savory BBQ sauce. It’s a meal that provides both satisfaction and comfort at the same time. If you’re looking to impress your guests or simply want to indulge in something spectacular, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese should be at the top of your list!
In this guide, you’ll discover why this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe stands out, learn the steps to prepare it, and find tips on serving it perfectly. Get ready to dive into a delightful culinary adventure that will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas and your belly with joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a dish that resonates with many for several reasons. Here are some key points that highlight why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household:
1. Comfort Food Classic: The combination of mac and cheese with BBQ chicken takes comfort food to the next level.
2. Family-Friendly Meal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish, making it perfect for family dinners.
3. Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify the recipe by using different types of cheese or substituting chicken with pulled pork or beef.
4. Easy Preparation: This mac and cheese recipe is straightforward, so even novice cooks can whip it up with confidence.
5. Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and bake it right before serving, ideal for meal prep or gatherings.
6. Satisfying and Filling: This dish provides a hearty meal that will leave everyone feeling full and happy.
Given these factors, it’s easy to see why BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese has become a must-try recipe that will bring joy to your dining table!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a relatively quick process that can be accomplished in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Here’s how the timing breaks down:
– Preparation Time: 25 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
– Cooling Time: 10-15 minutes
These times may vary slightly depending on your experience in the kitchen and the specific equipment you are using. However, this timeframe should help give you a good idea of what to expect.

Ingredients

– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
– 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted (if using breadcrumbs)

Step-by-Step Instructions

To prepare BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, follow these simple steps for a delicious dish:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Combine Chicken and BBQ Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated.
4. Make Cheese Sauce: In another large saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
5. Add Cheeses: Gradually add both the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese into the saucepan, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked, drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until evenly coated.
7. Fold in Chicken Mixture: Gently fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the mac and cheese until well combined.
8. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
9. Prepare Breadcrumbs (if using): In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
10. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
11. Cool: Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes.
12. Serve: Once cooled slightly, serve warm and enjoy!
Following these steps will ensure you create a BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that is not only hearty and flavorful but also visually appealing.

How to Serve

To create a delightful dining experience with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, consider the following serving suggestions:
1. Presentation: Use a large serving dish to showcase the mac and cheese. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an attractive touch.
2. Accompaniments: Serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
3. Portion Size: Serve generous portions, as this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Smaller servings may encourage guests to go back for seconds!
4. Beverage Pairings: For a refreshing complement, pair with iced tea, lemonade, or beer.
5. Leftover Ideas: If you have leftovers, package them in airtight containers. They can be enjoyed the next day or frozen for later use.
With these tips, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese can transform any meal into a memorable event, leaving your guests feeling delighted and satisfied!

Additional Tips

– Use Quality Ingredients: For a creamy, flavorful BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, opt for high-quality cheeses and fresh chicken.
– Taste As You Go: Adjust seasoning levels as per your taste. This will ensure that the flavors are just right.
– Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta to al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents a mushy texture.
– Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
– Include Veggies: Consider folding in some steamed broccoli or spinach to sneak in more nutrients and color.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to switch things up! Here are a few variations to try:
1. Vegetarian Version: Instead of chicken, use black beans or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian alternative.
2. Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese combinations, like pepper jack for a spicy twist.
3. BBQ Pulled Pork: Substitute chicken with pulled pork for a heartier dish that appeals to BBQ lovers.
4. Mac and Cheese Sliders: Spoon the mixture onto slider buns for a fun finger food version at parties.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
– Freezing: You can freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

You will need a few essential tools to prepare this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese successfully:
– Large pot for boiling pasta
– Large mixing bowl
– Saucepan for cheese sauce
– 9×13 inch baking dish for baking
– Whisk for stirring the cheese sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have macaroni?
You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or shell pasta.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving.
What if I want to make it spicier?
Add some jalapeños or hot sauce to the chicken mixture to give it a spicy twist.
Can I use store-bought BBQ chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought BBQ chicken can save you time and still deliver great flavor.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

In summary, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting, delicious dish that blends the flavors of BBQ chicken with creamy, cheesy macaroni. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, this recipe offers flexibility and satisfaction. With various ways to customize and serve this dish, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy a delightful meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Print