BBQ Chicken Mac

by

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and indulgent, the first bite of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese had me hooked, with the tender chicken and al dente pasta smothered in a rich, velvety sauce that left me craving more.

I still remember the summer afternoon I first made this recipe, standing in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of sizzling chicken and melting cheese, as my family gathered around the table, eager to taste the creamy, dreamy dish.

As we sat down to enjoy our BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, the combination of flavors and textures was like a party in my mouth, and I knew in that moment, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese quickly became a cherished family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

  • The creamy sauce and al dente pasta provide a delightful texture contrast that will leave you wanting more.
  • The smoky, tangy flavor of the BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheese and the savory chicken.
  • This recipe can be prepared in under 45 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
  • The foolproof recipe ensures that the dish turns out perfectly every time, with the chicken cooked through and the cheese melted to a golden, bubbly crust.
  • This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is perfect for casual gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners, and is sure to become a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 8 oz macaroni
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

The star of the show is undoubtedly the tender, juicy chicken, which is smothered in a rich, velvety BBQ sauce that adds a depth of flavor and a hint of smokiness, while the macaroni provides a comfortable, familiar base for the dish.

The combination of cheddar and parmesan cheese adds a creamy, indulgent touch, with the cheddar providing a sharp, tangy flavor and the parmesan adding a nutty, slightly sweet note.

Expert Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

  • Cooking the pasta al dente is crucial, as it helps the macaroni hold its shape and provides a nice texture contrast to the creamy sauce.
  • A common mistake is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough, so be sure to cook it until it’s just done, then let it rest before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
  • For a pro upgrade, try adding some crispy, crumbled bacon or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top of the mac and cheese for a satisfying crunch.
  • The dish is done when the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is al dente.
  • To make ahead, prepare the sauce and chicken up to a day in advance, then assemble and bake the mac and cheese when you’re ready.

Variations and Substitutions

How to Store and Reheat

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheated in the oven or microwave, and for a freezer tip, try portioning out individual servings and freezing them for up to 2 months, then reheating as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker, simply cook the chicken and sauce on low for 3-4 hours, then stir in the cooked pasta and cheese and cook for an additional 30 minutes.

This will result in a creamy, tender dish that’s perfect for a hands-off dinner.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda, provolone, or even a blend of cheddar and parmesan.

Just be sure to choose a combination that melts well and provides a rich, creamy flavor.

How do I prevent the mac and cheese from drying out?

To prevent the mac and cheese from drying out, be sure to not overcook the pasta, and to use a generous amount of sauce and cheese.

You can also try covering the dish with foil during baking to help retain moisture.

I hope you enjoy this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese as much as my family does, and that it becomes a staple in your household for years to come.

So go ahead, grab a fork, and dig in – your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll be making this recipe again and again.

✦ Recipe Card ✦

BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

⏱️
PREP
10 mins
🔥
COOK
25 mins
⏰
TOTAL
35 mins
👤
SERVES
4 servings
🔥 Calories 520 kcal💪 Protein 40g🌾 Carbs 35g🫙 Fat 24g
 

🧂 Ingredients

8 oz macaroni
2 cups milk
2 cups grated cheddar cheese
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
 

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. 3In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  4. 4Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
  5. 5Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  6. 6Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
  7. 7Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
  8. 8In a separate pan, cook chicken in BBQ sauce over medium heat until cooked through.
  9. 9Combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and cooked chicken in a baking dish.
  10. 10Top with additional cheese and paprika if desired.
  11. 11Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
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