BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and a tangy BBQ sauce to create a meal that everyone will love. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in.

Why Make This Recipe

Making BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a great idea for several reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners. Second, the mix of flavors—creamy cheese and smoky BBQ—creates a delicious meal that your whole family will enjoy. Lastly, this dish is versatile; you can add different ingredients or spices to make it your own!

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

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)
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
3. Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken in the sauce.
4. In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Then, fold in the BBQ chicken mixture and continue stirring until everything is well mixed.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hot in a large bowl or individual plates. You can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. This dish is great on its own or paired with a simple side salad or garlic bread.

How to Store BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

To store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, let it cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

• For a bit of crunch, consider topping the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs before baking it for a few minutes.
• Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking the chicken.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.

Variation

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken with black beans or cooked vegetables like bell peppers and corn. Additionally, if you like it extra spicy, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like! Shells, penne, or even gluten-free options work well.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Just make sure to store it properly in the fridge.

3. What can I serve with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
This dish pairs nicely with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or some slices of garlic bread for a complete meal.