There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, gooey dish of mac and cheese, but when you add the smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken, it transforms into a hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combines the nostalgic flavors of childhood with the bold taste of barbecue, creating a dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, this recipe is your ticket to cheesy, saucy goodness.
Reasons to Love BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
There are countless reasons to adore BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, but here are just a few:
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of BBQ sauce and creamy cheeses creates a flavor profile that is both rich and satisfying.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite ingredients, such as veggies or different cheeses.
- Great for Leftovers: BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic meal prep option.
Ingredient List
To whip up this delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups macaroni
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Cook’s Kit
Before you start cooking, gather the following kitchen essentials:
- Large Pot: For boiling the macaroni.
- Medium Saucepan: To make the cheese sauce.
- Whisk: For mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Baking Dish: To bake the finished mac and cheese.
- Spatula: For stirring and combining ingredients.
Method: BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering dish.
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the macaroni and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring continuously for about 1 minute until it forms a roux.
Step 3: Add Milk and Spices
Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Then, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cheeses
Remove the saucepan from heat and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and BBQ Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix the cooked shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
Step 6: Mix Everything Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and BBQ chicken mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Fit It to Your Goals
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese can easily be adjusted to suit various dietary preferences:
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or black beans.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour for the roux.
- Lower Calorie: Use low-fat cheese and milk to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.
- Add Veggies: Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrients and flavor.
Mistakes That Ruin BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Even the most seasoned cooks can fall victim to common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the macaroni al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking.
- Using Low-Quality Cheese: For the best flavor, opt for higher quality cheeses that melt well.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your cheese sauce well; a pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the dish.
- Not Mixing Enough: Ensure that the chicken and BBQ sauce are evenly distributed throughout the macaroni for consistent flavor.
Save It for Later
If you find yourself with leftovers (if they last that long!), here’s how to store them:
Allow the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of milk to restore its creaminess.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Gouda, pepper jack, or even cream cheese can add a unique twist to your dish.
How can I make this dish spicy?
Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture to give it a spicy kick. You can also use spicy BBQ sauce for added heat.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes! BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in single-serving containers for easy reheating throughout the week.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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Bring It Home
Now that you have the recipe for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a delightful way to bring comfort and joy to your dining table. Whether you stick closely to the recipe or make it your own, you’re sure to create something delicious that everyone will love. So grab a fork, dive in, and enjoy every cheesy, BBQ-infused bite!
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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the macaroni and set it aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring continuously for about 1 minute until it forms a roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Then, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cooked shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and BBQ chicken mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Medium Saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking Dish
- Spatula
Notes
- Allow the dish to cool before storing in an airtight container.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a splash of milk when reheating if it seems dry.
