If you crave comfort food, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is your answer. This dish blends hearty ingredients into one creamy, savory delight. Imagine tender elbow macaroni mixed with shredded chicken and rich BBQ sauce, topped with sharp cheddar and crispy breadcrumbs. You’ll learn how easy it is to whip up this satisfying dish with our step-by-step guide. Let’s dive into making your new favorite comfort meal!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
To start, you need elbow macaroni for the base. This pasta holds the cheesy sauce well. Next, grab cooked shredded chicken. Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. Finally, don’t forget the BBQ sauce. Choose your favorite brand to bring that smoky sweetness.
Dairy and Seasonings
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup cream cheese
For the creamy sauce, shredded sharp cheddar cheese is key. It melts beautifully and adds a nice bite. Whole milk gives the sauce richness, while cream cheese makes it extra smooth. These ingredients blend together to create a rich, cheesy goodness.
Additional Ingredients for Flavor and Crunch
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
You need unsalted butter to start the sauce. It adds flavor and helps everything mix well. Garlic powder and onion powder bring depth to the dish. Finally, panko breadcrumbs give a delightful crunch when baked. This adds texture and makes the dish irresistible.
For the full recipe, check out the link provided.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
To cook elbow macaroni, fill a large pot with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add 8 oz of elbow macaroni. Cook it until it is al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking. When it’s done, drain the pasta well. Set it aside, but don’t rinse it. Rinsing removes the starch that helps sauces stick.
For al dente pasta, taste it a minute before the time is up. You want it firm but not hard. This texture holds up well in the dish.
Making the Cheese Sauce
Start by melting 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once it melts, add 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese. Stir this mix until it is smooth and creamy. Next, slowly pour in 1 cup of whole milk while whisking. This helps avoid lumps.
Add your seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture simmer gently while you stir it. It should become thick and rich.
Combining Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the drained macaroni, 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken, and 1 cup of BBQ sauce. I like using rotisserie chicken for easy prep. Stir until everything is coated well with the BBQ sauce. Then, pour in the cheese sauce you just made. Mix gently to ensure every bite has that delicious cheese flavor.
Baking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to stop sticking. Pour the macaroni mix into the dish and spread it out evenly. For a crunchy top, sprinkle 1/4 cup of panko breadcrumbs on top.
Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes. You want the top to be bubbly and golden brown. The smell will be amazing! Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is pure comfort food! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Selecting the Best BBQ Sauce
Choosing the right BBQ sauce is key. I love using sweet and smoky sauces. They add depth to the dish. Some great brands include Sweet Baby Ray’s and Stubb’s. If you like heat, try a spicy version. You can also mix sauces for unique flavors. Don’t hesitate to sample a few before deciding!
Enhancing Flavor with Seasonings
Adding spices can take your BBQ chicken mac and cheese to the next level. I often add a dash of cayenne for heat. You might also like to sprinkle in some cumin or chili powder for warmth. Try adding a touch of mustard powder for a tangy kick. These simple changes can really enhance the dish.
Achieving Creamy Consistency
Sometimes cheese sauce can get too thick. If this happens, don’t worry! Just add a splash of milk to thin it out. Stir it in slowly until you reach the right texture. You want it creamy, not runny. This way, it coats the pasta just right. For more flavor, a bit of extra cream cheese can help too.
For the complete dish, check out the Full Recipe.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
To make a meatless BBQ chicken mac and cheese, swap out the chicken for plant-based protein. You can use shredded jackfruit or chickpeas for a hearty bite. These options absorb BBQ sauce well, giving you that yummy flavor. Just mix them with your cheese sauce and pasta as you would with chicken. This way, you still enjoy a cozy dish without meat.
Adding Vegetables
Incorporating veggies can boost flavor and nutrition. Broccoli and bell peppers work great in this dish. Steam broccoli until tender and chop bell peppers into small pieces. Add them to the pasta during the last minute of cooking. This keeps the veggies vibrant and crunchy. Stir them into your cheese and BBQ mixture for a colorful twist.
Different Cheese Choices
Exploring cheese options can change the taste of your dish. Try gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for unique flavors. Gouda adds a creamy texture, while pepper jack gives a spicy kick. Mix different cheeses for a rich and complex flavor. Always remember to add more cheese for that creamy goodness!
For a detailed guide on making BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, check out the Full Recipe.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
To store your BBQ chicken mac and cheese, cool it down first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to four days. Make sure to cover it well. This prevents it from drying out or absorbing other smells in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just scoop out what you need.
Freezing Tips
If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Portion out servings for easy access later. Before sealing, remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. Your BBQ chicken mac and cheese can stay good for up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you want to keep that creamy texture. For best results, reheat in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the mac and cheese in a baking dish. Add a splash of milk to keep it moist. Cover it with foil to trap steam. Bake for 20 minutes, or until hot. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. This helps it heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use canned chicken. It offers quick and easy preparation. However, there are some downsides. Canned chicken can be softer in texture, which may alter the dish. It also may lack the rich flavor of freshly cooked chicken. If you choose canned chicken, rinse it well to reduce excess sodium. This helps keep the flavors balanced in your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
How do I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese spicy?
To add spice, consider these options:
– Hot Sauce: Stir in your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
– Spicy BBQ Sauce: Use a BBQ sauce that has a kick.
– Jalapeños: Add diced jalapeños for a fresh heat.
– Chili Powder: Sprinkle chili powder into the cheese sauce for a warm flavor.
Each spice adds a unique layer to the dish, making it more exciting. Adjust the heat level to your taste to keep it enjoyable.
What to serve with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Pair your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with these tasty sides:
– Coleslaw: A crunchy, fresh contrast to the creamy dish.
– Garlic Bread: For a comforting, buttery addition.
– Green Salad: A light salad can balance out the richness.
– Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a nice touch.
These sides enhance your meal, making it even more satisfying. Enjoy experimenting with these options for a perfect feast!
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese blends three simple ingredients: macaroni, chicken, and BBQ sauce. We added rich cheeses and spices for even more flavor. You learned how to cook pasta perfectly, make a creamy cheese sauce, and bake it all for a golden finish. Don’t forget to try the tips to adapt it to your taste. Whether you want to add veggies or go meatless, there are options for everyone. Enjoy your cooking adventure and impress others with this delicious dish.
