Are you looking for a twist on classic comfort food? BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combines the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the smoky flavor of BBQ chicken. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Let’s dive into why you should make this delicious recipe!
Why make this recipe
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is simple yet satisfying. It offers a great combination of flavors that everyone will love. The creamy cheese sauce paired with the smoky BBQ chicken creates a unique taste that makes your meal special. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weekday dinner or a weekend get-together. You will definitely impress your loved ones with this dish!
How to prepare BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Preparing BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is easy! Here’s how to do it step-by-step.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred)
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Steps:
- Cook the pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package instructions. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
- Add the chicken: Toss the shredded chicken into the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes to heat it through.
- Mix in the flavors: Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken with the sauce.
- Prepare the cheese sauce: In a separate saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese while continuing to stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Next, fold in the BBQ chicken mixture and stir until well mixed.
- Taste and adjust: Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot: Serve your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
How to serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese right out of the pot for a cozy feel. You can dish it up in bowls and add a sprinkle of parsley on top for a nice touch! It pairs well with a simple green salad or some garlic bread on the side.
How to store BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it needs to loosen up.
Tips to make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese perfectly
- Cook pasta al dente: Make sure to cook the pasta just al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce: The flavor of your BBQ sauce will deeply influence the dish. Choose one that you love.
- Double the cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more cheese for an extra cheesy experience!
Variations
You can easily customize this recipe! Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition. If you love spice, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
FAQ
1. Can I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta can work, like penne, shells, or fusilli.
3. Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can combine the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for a few hours until hot and bubbly.
Now that you have this easy and tasty recipe, gather your ingredients and enjoy a delightful meal of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese!
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
A delicious twist on classic comfort food that combines creamy mac and cheese with smoky BBQ chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred)
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
- Toss the shredded chicken into the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes to heat it through.
- Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken with the sauce.
- In a separate saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese while continuing to stir until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Fold in the BBQ chicken mixture and stir until well mixed.
- Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Cook pasta al dente and use your favorite BBQ sauce to enhance the flavor. You can customize it with vegetables or spice it up with jalapeños.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, BBQ chicken, comfort food, American cuisine