There’s something undeniably magical about a creamy bowl of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Picture this: cheesy goodness swirling with tender, saucy chicken, all while your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas that would make even the most stoic of taste buds start to dance. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together, making it perfect for game nights or cozy gatherings.

Now, let me take you back to a summer barbecue when I decided to impress my friends with my cooking skills. Spoiler alert: I ended up creating this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese masterpiece by accident. As my friends devoured every last bite, I realized that sometimes the best recipes come from spontaneous moments in the kitchen—like my attempt to rescue too much leftover chicken from becoming a sad fridge relic!

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

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

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts will do; adjust according to your crowd size.
• BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version; it adds that smoky flavor we all love.
• Pasta (Elbow Macaroni): Opt for small pasta shapes like elbows or shells to hold onto all that cheesy goodness.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: A must-have for richness; feel free to mix in some mozzarella for extra gooeyness.

For the Sauce:

• Milk: Whole milk works best for achieving that creamy consistency; don’t skimp on this!
• Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and depth to your cheese sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: This helps thicken the sauce beautifully; just ensure you whisk it well to avoid lumps.

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

this recipe

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While waiting for the oven’s warm embrace, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Pop them into a baking dish and bake for about 25-30 minutes until they’re cooked through and juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Pasta

While your chicken is getting its tan in the oven, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package directions. Remember, no one likes mushy pasta! Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Whisk in flour and cook for about a minute until golden brown—this is called a roux, fancy right? Gradually stir in milk while whisking until smooth. Then add your sharp cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once everything is ready, shred the baked chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss it into the cheese sauce along with your cooked pasta and BBQ sauce. Stir until everything is well coated in that luscious cheesy mixture.

Step 5: Bake It All Together

Transfer everything into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. For an extra touch of crispiness on top, sprinkle some additional cheese (because why not?) and pop it into the oven for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it sit for five minutes—if you can resist! Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce drizzled on top if you’re feeling saucy!

With each creamy bite of this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, you’ll experience flavors that are downright comforting while also being completely fun! Whether it’s game day or just another Tuesday night at home, this dish will create smiles around your table. Now go forth—enjoy cooking this deliciously cheesy creation!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until it’s golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This sequence ensures that everything comes together seamlessly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully and giving you a dish that looks and tastes like a million bucks.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. For extra zest, sprinkle in some smoked paprika or toss in a handful of crispy breadcrumbs before serving. Get creative and make this dish your own!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to keep it creamy and prevent drying out. Microwave or warm on the stove until heated through, stirring gently.

When I first made BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese for my family, they devoured it within minutes! The laughter and compliments echoed around the table, making me realize how food can truly bring people together.

FAQs :

What is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines creamy macaroni and cheese with shredded chicken coated in tangy barbecue sauce. This recipe substitutes traditional pork products for chicken, making it a delicious option for all. The creamy cheese sauce pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of the barbecue, creating a hearty meal that is sure to please everyone.

How can I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese healthier?

To make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese healthier, consider using whole grain pasta for added fiber. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or opt for lower-fat cheese varieties. Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can increase the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, using grilled chicken instead of fried will lower the fat content while still providing protein.

Can I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time. Simply cook the pasta, chicken, and sauce as directed, then combine them in a baking dish. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven until it’s heated through and bubbly.

What can I serve with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad for a light balance or coleslaw that adds crunch. Grilled corn on the cob is another great option that complements the barbecue flavors perfectly. For something heartier, garlic bread makes an excellent addition to this comforting meal.

Conclusion for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese :

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite by incorporating savory shredded chicken with rich cheesy goodness. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also allows for various healthy adaptations such as using whole grain pasta or adding vegetables. Whether served as a main course or paired with fresh sides, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners at home. Enjoy this scrumptious meal that blends comfort food with bold flavors!

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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort dish that combines creamy macaroni and cheese with tender, smoky BBQ chicken. This mouthwatering recipe is perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings, transforming ordinary meals into memorable experiences. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, you can easily whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time, making it a go-to favorite for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken with salt and pepper, place in a baking dish, and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through. Shred the chicken.
2. Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; whisk in flour for about a minute. Gradually stir in milk until smooth. Add cheddar cheese gradually until melted.
4. Combine shredded chicken, cooked macaroni, and BBQ sauce into the cheese sauce until well coated.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish, sprinkle more cheese on top if desired, and bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Allow to cool for five minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, include vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Substitute chicken with turkey or add crispy breadcrumbs for extra texture.