BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, look no further than this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese! This recipe has become a staple in my home because it combines the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese. It’s an exciting twist on two classic favorites, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

The best part? This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is not only delicious but also offers a high-protein boost thanks to the chicken. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your loved ones or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to bring smiles to everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just 25 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy evenings.
• Family Favorite: With its cheesy goodness and BBQ flavor, even picky eaters will love this dish!
• Make Ahead: Perfect for meal prep; you can easily store leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners.
• Customizable: You can tweak ingredients or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.
• High Protein: This dish packs a punch with 40g of protein per serving, keeping you full and satisfied.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. These staples are easy to find and will help create that rich, creamy comfort food experience we all crave!

For the Chicken

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pasta

• 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice

For the Cheese Sauce

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred)

Flavor Boosters

• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked turkey for a different flavor.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some cooked broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to give your dish an extra kick.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta according to package instructions. Make sure to drain it well once it’s al dente; we want it firm enough to hold up against that creamy cheese sauce!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm up the olive oil. Add in your shredded chicken and give it about 2-3 minutes to heat through. This step helps infuse the chicken with flavor from the upcoming BBQ sauce.

Step 3: Mix in Flavorful Sauces

Stir in your favorite BBQ sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients well ensures every piece of chicken gets coated in that tangy goodness!

Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, warm up the milk. Gradually stir in your cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. This creamy cheese sauce is what makes our mac and cheese so irresistible!

Step 5: Combine It All Together

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add your cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, mixing gently. Then fold in that flavorful BBQ chicken mixture until everything is well combined. Don’t rush this step; making sure each bite has all those delicious flavors is key!

Step 6: Taste Test!

Before serving, take a moment to taste your creation. Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed—this final touch can make all the difference!

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Serve your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hot from the stovetop. If desired, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for an extra pop of color. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Making the perfect BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is all about technique and a few secret tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish comes out creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying!

• Use freshly cooked chicken – Shredding fresh, cooked chicken adds moisture to the dish and enhances the flavor compared to pre-packaged rotisserie chicken. It also gives you control over the seasoning!
• Opt for quality cheese – Choosing high-quality cheddar and mozzarella cheese will elevate the creaminess of your sauce. The better the cheese, the smoother and richer your mac and cheese will be.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – Cook your pasta until it’s al dente, which means a little firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta can become mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.
• Experiment with BBQ sauces – Different brands of BBQ sauce have varying levels of sweetness and smokiness. Don’t hesitate to try a few different ones until you find your favorite combination!
• Add veggies for extra nutrition – Consider folding in some steamed broccoli or spinach before serving. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a pop of color to your dish.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Presenting your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese can turn a simple meal into a delightful dining experience. Here are some fun ideas for how to serve this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions – A sprinkle of fresh green onions on top adds a nice crunch and a burst of color.
• Crumbled tortilla chips – For an unexpected twist, add some crumbled tortilla chips for texture and an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Coleslaw – A crisp coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy mac and cheese. The tangy dressing complements the BBQ flavors beautifully.
• Grilled corn on the cob – Sweet, charred corn pairs perfectly with this dish. Brush it with olive oil or herb butter for an extra delicious touch.
• Roasted vegetables – A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings color and nutrients to your plate while adding depth in flavor.
• Garlic bread – Everyone loves garlic bread! The buttery, garlicky flavor is a great companion to this rich mac and cheese.

Enjoy creating this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese masterpiece that not only comforts but also impresses! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have hearty, high-protein meals ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date to track freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy, or warm it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.
• Stir occasionally during reheating to ensure even warmth.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you!

Can I use gluten-free pasta for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works wonderfully in this recipe. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.

How can I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese healthier?

To make this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese healthier, consider using whole grain pasta, reducing cheese portions slightly, or adding more vegetables like steamed broccoli or spinach into the mix.

Can I prepare BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze it for later. Just follow the storage guidelines above.

What goes well with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

This dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with some crusty bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this delightful BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese! It’s a recipe that combines comforting flavors with a high-protein twist, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Enjoy creating this scrumptious dish and sharing it with your loved ones. Happy cooking!