The rich aroma of smoky BBQ wafts through my kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. My recipe for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful blend of creamy cheeses and tender chicken smothered in tangy BBQ sauce, creating a warm embrace for the soul. This dish stands out as the ultimate comfort food and is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With just the right amount of crunch from a golden breadcrumb topping, it’s indulgent yet surprisingly easy to whip up. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients or sauces! Can you imagine diving into a steaming bowl of this goodness tonight? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese special?
Ultimate Comfort: Dive into the warmth of this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, where nostalgia and flavor meet effortlessly.
Creamy Texture: Each bite envelops you in a velvety sauce made from a perfect blend of cheddar and mozzarella.
Flavor-Packed: The tangy BBQ sauce marries beautifully with the rich cheeses, making this dish a standout for family get-togethers.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in under an hour, it’s a reliable option for busy weeknights. Pair it with a fresh side salad for a complete meal!
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy even the pickiest eaters. You might also enjoy my Ham Cheese Croissant for another delightful twist on comfort food!
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Ingredients
• Gather these key ingredients for a comforting delight.
For the Pasta
- Elbow macaroni – Provides structure for the dish; feel free to substitute with shell or penne pasta for a different texture.
For the Cheese Sauce
- Unsalted butter – Essential for creating the roux; you can use salted butter for extra flavor.
- All-purpose flour – Thickens the cheese sauce; gluten-free flour works well too for a gluten-free version.
- Milk – Forms the creamy base of the sauce; whole milk is preferred for its richness, but any type will do.
- Cheddar cheese – Adds sharpness and flavor; try substituting with a mix of cheddar and gouda for a tasty twist.
- Mozzarella cheese – Introduces creaminess and great meltability; similar melting cheeses can be substituted.
- Garlic powder – Enhances flavor depth; fresh garlic can be used, just adjust the amount.
- Onion powder – Boosts savory notes; fresh onions can be sautéed for a fresher taste.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning; always adjust to your personal taste.
For the BBQ Chicken Mixture
- Shredded chicken – Absorbs BBQ flavor; rotisserie chicken simplifies your prep.
- BBQ sauce – Brings tanginess and sweetness; choose your favorite store brand or go homemade for a fresher option.
For Garnish and Texture
- Green onions – Adds a fresh crunch to finish; replace with red onions for a stronger flavor if desired.
- Fresh parsley (optional) – Provides a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous notes; can be omitted if not available.
- Breadcrumbs (optional) – Creates a crunchy topping; panko breadcrumbs add a delightful lightness.
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is designed to give you a comforting, delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Preheat and Cook Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven warms up, cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water for about 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander, shaking off excess water, and set it aside while you prepare the creamy cheese sauce for this delightful BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
Step 2: Create the Roux
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter is fully melted, whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux. The mixture should be bubbling but not browned. This step is critical as it gives your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese its rich texture.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, continuing to stir for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup each of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt completely and blend into a smooth sauce, then season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Once your cheese sauce is creamy and smooth, add the drained macaroni to the sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly until every piece of pasta is nicely coated in the luscious cheese mixture, creating the perfect base for your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan for any stuck cheese, ensuring a uniform texture.
Step 5: Prepare BBQ Chicken Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the shredded chicken with ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. Mix well until all the chicken is thoroughly coated in the sauce. This flavorful mixture will enhance the taste of your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, bringing a smoky sweetness that's irresistible and comforting.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Gently fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the pasta and cheese sauce, ensuring the chicken is evenly distributed throughout. This step is important for a well-balanced flavor in your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, giving every bite a satisfying blend of cheesy goodness and BBQ delight.
Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Carefully spoon the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese mixture into the dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even layer. This step helps create that enticing, golden crust as it bakes, making your dish visually appealing and delicious.
Step 8: Optional Topping
For an added crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the macaroni mixture. If you choose to add this step, it will give your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese a perfect texture contrast, enhancing the overall experience with a delightful crunch on top.
Step 9: Bake
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; it’s done when the top is golden brown and the cheese bubbles enticingly. This will ensure your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is hot and ready to enjoy.
Step 10: Rest and Garnish
After baking, let your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the cheese sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Before diving in, drizzle with a little extra BBQ sauce and sprinkle with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that enhance every bite of this creamy dish.
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Fresh Side Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette brings a vibrant contrast to the rich mac and cheese. The acidity balances the heaviness beautifully, making it a perfect accompaniment.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery garlic breadsticks offer a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture of the mac and cheese. Each bite oozes flavor and enhances the comfort food appeal.
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Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet and crumbly cornbread adds a comforting Southern touch to your meal. Its texture and flavor contrast harmoniously with the smoky BBQ chicken, making each bite a joy.
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Grilled Veggies: Charred, seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring a smoky flavor and vibrant colors. They add a healthy touch and evoke the essence of a summer BBQ, enhancing the dish’s richness.
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Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds a crunchy, tangy element that cuts through the richness of the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. It’s a classic pairing that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing iced tea or homemade lemonade pairs perfectly with the robust flavors of BBQ chicken. Their brightness and acidity cleanse the palate and keep you refreshed, rounding out the meal delightfully.
With these complementary sides and drinks, your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese will shine on any dining table, creating a comforting yet satisfying feast that everyone will love!
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Perfect Roux: Ensure the roux stays light; if it browns too much, your sauce may turn bitter and lose its creamy consistency.
- Whisk Constantly: When adding milk to the roux, whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming for a smooth BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
- Resting Time: Allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set and improves the cheese pulls when serving.
- Cheese Quality: Use good-quality cheese for the best flavor. Aged cheddar adds depth, while fresh mozzarella can enrich creaminess.
- Crunch Factor: If using breadcrumbs, opt for panko for a lighter and crunchier topping. It will elevate the texture beautifully!
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Adaptations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and tailor this dish to your tastes and dietary needs!
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Pasta Variety: Experiment with shells or penne instead of elbow macaroni for added texture and visual appeal.
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Cheese Blends: Try smoked cheddar or a mix of gouda and cheddar to add depth to the cheese sauce. Melty gooeyness is what we’re after!
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Spice It Up: For some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. It’ll give your mac a delightful kick that warms from the inside out.
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Bacon Boost: Fold in crispy bacon or sauteed bell peppers for a flavorful twist. The combo of smoky bacon and creamy mac and cheese is simply irresistible!
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Healthier Version: Use whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheeses to lighten the dish while still keeping it comforting. A little change can go a long way!
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs, like thyme or basil, can elevate the mac's flavor and introduce a fresh note. A pinch of these will brighten your dish.
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Nut-Free Alternative: If you're avoiding nuts, ensure to double-check your BBQ sauce; some brands add nuts. Opt for a homemade sauce for peace of mind.
You might also enjoy pairing this dish with a fresh side salad or cornbread, or checking out my delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken for a complementary recipe!
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese are perfect for busy weeknights and can truly save you time when you prep ahead! You can cook the elbow macaroni and prepare the cheese sauce up to 24 hours in advance; just make sure to store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Additionally, you can mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply combine the macaroni, cheese sauce, and BBQ chicken mixture in a greased baking dish, sprinkle on the breadcrumbs if desired, and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy the comforting delight of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese without fussing too much on busy nights!
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Always let the dish cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Portion out servings for easy reheating later.
Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain the creamy texture of your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
Thawing: For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This ensures even warming and flavor.
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! Cooking your chicken from scratch can be delightful, but I often recommend using rotisserie chicken for convenience. It’s already seasoned and saves you time. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces, and you're good to go!
How should I store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
For best results, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy them within 3 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can! To freeze, transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it's well-sealed. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if my cheese sauce turns lumpy?
Very! If your cheese sauce appears lumpy, don’t worry. Simply whisk continuously and return it to low heat. If it doesn't come together, you can blend it for a smoother texture. Always apply minimal heat and combine cheese gradually for creamy results.
Are there any dietary considerations for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Indeed! This dish can be adapted for various diets. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta and flour. If you or your guests have dairy allergies, you can substitute the cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives, ensuring to check ingredient labels for any potential allergens.
What can I do with leftover BBQ sauce?
If you find yourself with extra BBQ sauce, fantastic! Use it to marinate chicken or ribs, or mix it into a salad dressing for a smoky twist. You can also drizzle it on top of your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese right before serving for an extra flavor kick!
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add 1 cup each of shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until melted. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
- In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken with ½ cup of BBQ sauce.
- Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the pasta and cheese sauce evenly.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and spoon the mixture in, smoothing the top.
- Optional: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top for added crunch.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes, then drizzle with extra BBQ sauce and sprinkle with green onions or parsley before serving.
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