BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: Prepare to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your comfort food expectations! Imagine the creamy, cheesy goodness of classic macaroni and cheese, elevated to a whole new level with the smoky, tangy, and utterly irresistible flavors of barbecue chicken. This isn’t just mac and cheese; it’s a culinary adventure.

Macaroni and cheese, a dish with roots tracing back to medieval Europe, has become a beloved staple in American cuisine. Its simplicity and comforting nature have made it a favorite across generations. But the addition of BBQ chicken? That’s where the magic truly happens. The sweet and savory notes of barbecue sauce perfectly complement the richness of the cheese sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

People adore this dish for its incredible taste and satisfying texture. The creamy mac and cheese provides a comforting base, while the tender, flavorful BBQ chicken adds a delightful chewiness and a burst of smoky sweetness. It’s also incredibly convenient! This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck gathering, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort. So, ditch the boring mac and cheese and get ready to indulge in a truly unforgettable meal. You won’t regret it!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Mac and Cheese:
• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 cups (about 1 pound) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cups (about 1/2 pound) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup (about 1/4 pound) shredded Gruyere cheese
• For the BBQ Chicken:
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (I recommend a smoky or sweet variety)
• For the Topping (Optional):
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Preparing the BBQ Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better. In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned. The browning adds a lot of flavor!
3. Simmer in BBQ Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken thighs. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. Combine and Simmer: Return the shredded chicken to the skillet with the BBQ sauce. Stir to combine and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb even more of that delicious BBQ flavor. Keep warm while you prepare the mac and cheese.

Making the Mac and Cheese Sauce:

1. Cook the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Al dente means slightly firm to the bite. This is important because the macaroni will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the macaroni well and set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which is the base of the cheese sauce. Be careful not to burn the roux, as this will give the sauce a bitter taste.
3. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1 cup at a time, making sure each addition is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Season the Sauce: Add the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to the sauce. Whisk to combine.
5. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and Gruyere cheese, about 1 cup at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Don’t rush this step; patience is key to a smooth cheese sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk. If it seems too thin, cook it for a few more minutes, stirring constantly.

Assembling the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese:

1. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat. Make sure all the macaroni is evenly coated in the cheesy goodness.
2. Add BBQ Chicken: Gently fold in the shredded BBQ chicken into the mac and cheese. Distribute the chicken evenly throughout the mixture.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the BBQ chicken mac and cheese into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Preparing the Topping (Optional):

1. Combine Topping Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix well.
2. Sprinkle Topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the BBQ chicken mac and cheese.

Baking the Mac and Cheese:

1. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the BBQ chicken mac and cheese for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbly.
2. Rest: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the mac and cheese to set slightly.

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gouda, Havarti, or even a little bit of pepper jack can add a unique flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little kick.
• Vegetable Additions: Stir in some cooked broccoli, peas, or corn for added nutrients and flavor.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• BBQ Sauce: The type of BBQ sauce you use will greatly impact the flavor of the dish. Experiment with different brands and flavors to find your favorite. A smoky BBQ sauce pairs well with the cheddar and Gruyere, while a sweeter sauce can complement the Monterey Jack.
• Chicken Preparation: If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken thighs yourself. Simply shred the rotisserie chicken and toss it with BBQ sauce.
• Breadcrumb Topping Alternatives: If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers or even potato chips for a crunchy topping.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the BBQ chicken mac and cheese as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs well with coleslaw, cornbread, or a simple green salad.
• Storage: Store leftover BBQ chicken mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese when reheating to restore its creamy texture.
• Preventing a Grainy Cheese Sauce: The key to a smooth cheese sauce is to use freshly grated cheese and to melt it over low heat. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Also, avoid boiling the cheese sauce, as this can cause it to separate and become grainy.
• Adding a Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy mac and cheese, try adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the cheese sauce. This will add richness and tanginess to the dish.
• Broiling for Extra Color: If you want the topping to be even more golden brown, you can broil the mac and cheese for a minute or two at the end of the baking time. Watch it carefully to prevent burning.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just mac and cheese; it’s an experience! The smoky sweetness of the barbecue chicken perfectly complements the creamy, cheesy goodness, creating a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Seriously, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a game-changer, a comfort food remix that’s destined to become a family favorite. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve at your next backyard barbecue.

But why is this recipe a must-try? Because it’s more than just a meal; it’s a conversation starter. It’s the dish that everyone asks about, the one that disappears first at potlucks. It’s the perfect blend of familiar comfort and exciting new flavors. The combination of tender, shredded barbecue chicken, the rich and creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked macaroni is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Feeling adventurous? Try using different types of barbecue sauce to customize the flavor profile. A tangy vinegar-based sauce will add a zesty kick, while a sweet and smoky sauce will enhance the barbecue flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses. Sharp cheddar will provide a classic, bold flavor, while Gruyere will add a nutty and sophisticated touch. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

Want to make it a complete meal? Serve it with a side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness. You could also add some grilled corn on the cob for a classic barbecue side dish. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with smoked tofu or grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.

Looking for a lighter version? Use whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese. You can also add some chopped broccoli or spinach to boost the nutritional value.

Consider topping your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with crispy fried onions, crumbled bacon, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added texture and flavor. A drizzle of extra barbecue sauce on top is always a good idea too!

This recipe is also incredibly easy to adapt to your own preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to create your own signature version. The possibilities are endless!

I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive gathering with friends and family. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, and it’s so easy to make that even beginner cooks can master it.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to experience the magic of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do!

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please share your photos and comments. Let me know what variations you tried, what your family thought, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating delicious and inspiring recipes for you. Happy cooking!