Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect comfort food fusion that combines two crowd-pleasing dishes into one decadent meal. Creamy, cheesy, and smoky with a touch of tang from the BBQ sauce, this dish brings together tender shredded chicken, gooey melted cheese, and pasta in a way that’s sure to satisfy. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner or a delicious dish to serve at your next gathering. Whether you’re a BBQ lover or a mac and cheese fan, this recipe has something for everyone!

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)
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked, shredded chicken to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Make the cheese sauce: In a separate medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Gradually add the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Then, fold in the BBQ chicken mixture, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.
5. Serve: Transfer the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 people
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
• Cheese Lovers: Add a few extra handfuls of cheese (such as gouda or pepper jack) for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for a veggie-packed twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the mac and cheese in a saucepan over low heat, stirring in a little milk to help loosen the sauce, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, shells, or fusilli work great as alternatives to elbow macaroni.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to the dish. Just shred the chicken and follow the recipe as directed.

What BBQ sauce should I use?

Use your favorite BBQ sauce, whether it’s sweet, tangy, smoky, or spicy. This will influence the flavor of the dish, so choose one that suits your taste preferences.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a tablespoon of hot sauce or chili flakes to the chicken mixture, or use a spicy BBQ sauce to bring more heat to the dish.

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes! You can use a combination of cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or parmesan for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well for a creamy sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the pasta for a gluten-free variety.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dish ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Consider adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or corn to enhance the flavor and add some color to the dish.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from clumping?

Make sure to cook the milk over medium heat and add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly to avoid clumps. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more milk to loosen it.

Can I bake this mac and cheese for a crispy top?

Yes! After combining the pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce, transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with extra shredded cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is an irresistible comfort food that takes the best parts of a BBQ chicken dish and blends them with the creamy richness of mac and cheese. With its smoky, tangy, and cheesy flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, customizable to your taste, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe has you covered!

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