The aroma of smoky BBQ chicken mingles with the rich, creamy goodness of melted cheese, and the playful twirl of pasta makes every bite a delightful experience. Imagine the joy of creamy, cheesy macaroni cradling tender, juicy chicken, topped with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, creating a burst of flavor that dances on your palate.
Growing up, I always thought mac and cheese was the king of comfort food. My mom would whip it up on stormy days, insisting it would chase the clouds away. Now, as an adult, I’ve taken my childhood favorite and turbocharged it with BBQ chicken. My kitchen transformed into a mini BBQ joint (minus the smoke alarms) as I experimented with flavors and textures that would make my younger self proud.
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is a masterpiece of simplicity and taste, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With easy preparation, your taste buds will savor the unique balance of smoky chicken, creamy cheese, and a hint of BBQ sweetness. Plus, the dish looks stunning when served, making it a showstopper at any dinner table. It’s also highly versatile—feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or even use different cheeses to suit your fancy.
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Here’s what you need for this delicious dish:
The complete ingredient list, including quantities, can be found directly under the recipe card.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps maintain a perfect texture and keeps the pasta from sticking together.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until smooth, racing against the clock here. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute, until it’s bubbly, and you’re in for a treat! Gradually whisk in 3 cups of whole milk. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles form. This should take about 4-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Once the sauce is thick and creamy, remove it from heat and add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is beautifully gooey. Oh, you’re really going to want to dive in right now, but hang tight!
Step 4: Mix in the Chicken and BBQ Sauce
Fold in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce into the cheese sauce. Make sure every morsel of chicken is coated in that creamy goodness! It’s like a delicious hug for your taste buds.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Pour the cooked pasta into the pot with the cheese and chicken mixture. Stir gently to combine everything evenly. You want each piece of pasta to get a generous coating of that glorious sauce.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden on top. Remove from the oven, cool for a few minutes, then serve. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or extra BBQ sauce for that extra pop.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately to enjoy the incredible combination of flavors and textures. Your friends and family will definitely think you’re a culinary wizard—or at least just someone who’s very good at following instructions!
Improving the Cooking Method
For the perfect BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, start by cooking the pasta just until al dente. This will prevent it from becoming mushy during baking. Mix the cooked pasta with the chicken and sauce while still warm for better flavor absorption.
Decorate Your Dish with Your Personal Touch
Have fun with your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese! Instead of just cheddar, try using pepper jack cheese for a serious kick. You can also add some fresh parsley or chives for that colorful flair on top.
Smart Tips for Storage and Reheating
To keep your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese creamy, store the dish in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to maintain that luscious texture without making it dry.
Practical Chef Advice
I still remember the first time I made BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese for a picnic. Everyone was raving about it, and I basked in the glory of being the ‘Mac and Cheese Maestro!’
Conclusion for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
In just a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that delights with smoky flavors and creamy texture. By using juicy chicken and rich, melty cheese, every bite offers satisfaction. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, and it’s a fantastic way to impress your guests! Don’t miss out on this delightful combination of comfort and taste. Gather your ingredients and whip up this irresistible BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese today—you won’t regret it!
Print
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combines the smoky flavor of tender BBQ chicken with the rich, creamy goodness of melted cheese and pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this easy recipe balances sweetness and savoriness in each bite. The dish is customizable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or experiment with different cheeses. A comforting crowd-pleaser, it transforms a classic favorite into a show-stopping meal that delights both kids and adults alike. Suitable for dinner or a hearty lunch, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 8 Unzen Elbow-Makkaroni
- 1 1/2 Tassen gekochtes Hähnchen, zerfleddert
- 2 Tassen Cheddar-Käse, frisch gerieben
- 1 Tasse Monterey Jack Käse, frisch gerieben
- 1 Tasse BBQ-Sauce
- 3 Tassen Vollmilch
- 4 Esslöffel Allzweckmehl
- 4 Esslöffel ungesalzene Butter
- 1 Teelöffel Senfpulver
- 1/2 Teelöffel schwarzer Pfeffer, frisch gemahlen
Instructions
Notes
Storage: Store any leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Reheating: To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Serving: Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese or chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation. Pair it with a fresh salad or coleslaw to balance the richness of the dish.
Chef’s Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce before mixing in the pasta and chicken. This enhances the BBQ flavor and adds a nice kick!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Backen
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 0
FAQs
How can I store leftovers of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
To store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, allow it to cool to room temperature. Transfer the dish to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or you can microwave it in individual servings. If the mac and cheese seems dry after reheating, adding a splash of chicken broth can help restore its creamy texture.
Can I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time! Assemble the dish as instructed, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. For the best results, it’s advisable to bake it the same day if possible. However, you can also bake it the next day—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. This makes it perfect for meal prep or upcoming gatherings.
What type of cheese works best for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
For BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese works exceptionally well. Cheddar provides a sharp flavor that complements the barbecue taste, while mozzarella adds creaminess and stretch. You can also experiment with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Gouda for added depth. Just make sure to choose cheeses that melt well for the creamiest outcome!
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for an alternative protein, feel free to use cooked turkey, beef, or even grilled lamb in your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using pre-cooked meat. The smoky BBQ sauce will pair well with any of these proteins, ensuring a deliciously satisfying meal!
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