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 layer of breadcrumbs. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also warms your heart with every bite. Originating from the classic American comfort food, mac and cheese, this recipe adds a smoky twist that has made it a favorite at family gatherings and potlucks.

People love BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese for its perfect balance of taste and texture. The richness of the cheese sauce complements the tangy BBQ sauce, while the pasta provides a satisfying chew. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy night in, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I like to use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk (whole milk works best for creaminess)
• 3 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 (if using 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. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set it aside. I like to rinse it briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process, but this is optional.

Making the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. I love the smell of butter melting; it’s the perfect start to any dish!
2. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until it’s bubbly and slightly golden. This step is crucial as it helps thicken the cheese sauce.
3. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously 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 to combine.
5. Now, it’s time to add the cheese! Gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. I usually reserve a little cheese for topping later, but that’s totally up to you!

Combining Chicken and BBQ Sauce

1. In a separate bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. I like to use a generous amount of BBQ sauce to ensure the chicken is well-coated and flavorful.
2. Once the chicken is mixed with the BBQ sauce, fold it into the cheese sauce. Make sure everything is well combined; I find that using a spatula works best for this.

Bringing It All Together

1. Now, it’s time to combine the macaroni with the cheesy BBQ chicken sauce. Add the drained macaroni to the saucepan and stir until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce. This is where the magic happens!
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, you can prepare your baking dish. I usually use a 9×13 inch casserole dish for this recipe.
3. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If you reserved some cheese, sprinkle it on top for an extra cheesy finish.

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 crisp up nicely in the oven.
2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. This step adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy dish.

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

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their comfort food game. The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with the smoky, tangy flavors of BBQ chicken creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a casual get-together with friends, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider topping your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added texture. You can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite vegetables, such as sautéed bell peppers or corn, to give it an extra nutritional boost. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the chicken for pulled pork or even a vegetarian option with jackfruit for a unique twist. I encourage you to give this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese a try and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative variations you come up with. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, BBQ-infused bite of this delightful dish. Happy cooking!

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