BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can stand up to the tantalizing combination of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Picture this: creamy, cheesy goodness enveloping tender pasta, topped with succulent, smoky BBQ chicken. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures that can bring any family gathering to life. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt creation that brings everyone to the table, making it perfect for cold winter evenings. Fun fact: while classic macaroni and cheese has been around since the 1700s, this BBQ twist has taken the comfort food game to a new level, reflecting the rich tapestry of American cuisine. If you’ve enjoyed our Cheesy Spinach Pasta Bake, you’ll absolutely relish this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese—with its sizzling layer of BBQ sauce adding an extra depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible!

What is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is essentially a whimsical mashup of two beloved dishes that makes you wonder how it took so long for them to meet! I mean, who wouldn’t want a creamy, cheesy concoction paired with smoky BBQ chicken? Let’s be honest: “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dish goes straight to the heart! Imagine inviting your loved ones over and treating them to this layered delight—your kitchen will be the new talk of the town! So, why not give it a try? Your family will appreciate the effort, and you might just find a new go-to recipe!

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is not only a showstopper at meal times but also a cost-saving hero for home cooks. Making this dish at home means you can enjoy all the flavors without breaking the bank. The combination of rich, gooey cheese and perfectly seasoned BBQ chicken results in a dish that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Add your favorite toppings—like crispy onions, fresh herbs, or even jalapeños—and you have a dish that rivals well-known establishments! It’s like taking a classic comfort food and elevating it to gourmet status without all the fuss. Ready to impress? Let’s get started!

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Quick Overview

Creating BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a breeze, making it an excellent choice for both busy weeknights and family gatherings. This dish combines heartiness with creaminess in a way that is simply satisfying. In total, you’ll spend around 30 minutes preparing this delicious meal. Are you ready to feel the blend of flavors and textures?

Key Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this delightful dish:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably grilled or rotisserie for flavor)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (for that gooey, cheesy goodness)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (adds a nice stretch)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese (for creaminess)
• 1/2 cup milk (adjust for desired consistency)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (to cook the chicken)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: If your chicken isn’t already cooked, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, followed by the BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is fully coated and heated through. Remove from stovetop.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, and milk. Stir until you have a creamy mixture. You can use a hand mixer for a smoother texture if desired.
4. Combine: Add the drained pasta and BBQ chicken to the cheese mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are fully coated in cheesy goodness.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow it to sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.

Top Tips for Perfecting BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, here are some tips to take your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to the next level:

• Homemade BBQ Sauce: If you have the time, try making your own BBQ sauce! It’s easier than you think and allows you to control all the flavors.
• Choosing Cheeses: Feel free to mix and match cheeses; gouda or pepper jack can add unique flavor profiles.
• Avoiding Overcooking: Keep an eye on your pasta! Overcooked pasta can lead to a mushy texture—nobody likes that.
• Double the Recipe: This dish is a great option for potlucks or family gatherings; consider doubling the recipe to ensure leftovers for everyone!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months! To reheat, simply microwave in increments, stirring periodically until warmed through, or heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to maintain moisture.

Now that you have everything you need to whip up this comforting and delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family and friends! Enjoy the journey of flavor and texture that this dish promises. Happy cooking!

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

A creamy, cheesy delight combining elbow macaroni with flavorful BBQ chicken, perfect for any family gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 500

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Chicken

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably grilled or rotisserie for flavor)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite brand or homemade
• 1 tablespoon olive oil To cook the chicken
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Cheese Mixture

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese For that gooey, cheesy goodness
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese Adds a nice stretch
• 1/2 cup cream cheese For creaminess
• 1/2 cup milk Adjust for desired consistency

Garnish

• Chopped green onions or parsley For garnish

Method

 

Cooking Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Preparing Chicken

1. If your chicken isn’t already cooked, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, followed by the BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is fully coated and heated through. Remove from stovetop.

Making Cheese Sauce

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, and milk. Stir until you have a creamy mixture. You can use a hand mixer for a smoother texture if desired.

Combining Ingredients

1. Add the drained pasta and BBQ chicken to the cheese mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are fully coated in cheesy goodness.

Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Garnishing and Serving

1. Remove from the oven and allow it to sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.

Notes

For best results, try making your own BBQ sauce and mix different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack. Avoid overcooking the pasta to prevent a mushy texture. This recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.