BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings comfort food to a whole new level. Imagine creamy, cheesy pasta intertwined with tender pieces of BBQ chicken, all topped with a crispy, golden crust. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also tells a story of culinary creativity, blending the smoky essence of barbecue with the beloved classic mac and cheese.

As someone who has always enjoyed experimenting in the kitchen, I can attest to why BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese has become a favorite among family and friends. The combination of rich, gooey cheese and the tangy sweetness of BBQ sauce creates a taste sensation that is hard to resist. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a must-have in your culinary repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably BBQ-flavored)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for breadcrumbs)
• Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes.
3. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. I like to rinse it briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from sticking together.

Making the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Make sure it doesn’t brown; we just want it melted.
2. Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will help thicken our cheese sauce.
3. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Now, it’s time to add the cheese! Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth. This is the moment I get really excited because the cheese sauce is just so creamy and delicious!

Combining Chicken and BBQ Sauce

1. In a separate bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. I usually use about a cup of BBQ sauce, but feel free to adjust based on your taste preference. You want the chicken to be well-coated but not swimming in sauce.
2. Once the chicken is mixed with the BBQ sauce, fold it into the cheese sauce. Make sure everything is well combined. The BBQ flavor will infuse into the cheese sauce, creating a delightful blend.

Bringing It All Together

1. Now, add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese and chicken mixture. Stir gently to combine everything evenly. I like to use a spatula for this step to ensure the pasta doesn’t break apart.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, prepare a large baking dish by greasing it lightly with cooking spray or butter.
3. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Optional Breadcrumb Topping

1. If you want to add a crunchy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil in a small bowl until they are well-coated. This will help them brown nicely in the oven.
2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. This step is optional, but I highly recommend it for that extra texture!

Baking the Dish

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. I like to keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.
2. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven

Conclusion:

In summary, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their comfort food game. The combination of smoky BBQ flavors with creamy, cheesy pasta creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or just craving something indulgent, this recipe is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a fresh green salad or some grilled vegetables to balance out the richness. You can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite ingredients—think jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even some crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese a try and make it your own. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delightful dish together! Happy cooking!

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