BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese – CookTune

Delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food 🍗🧀🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish that combines smoky BBQ chicken with creamy mac and cheese, you’re in the right place! This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is the perfect comfort food that will satisfy your taste buds and has become a favorite among family and friends. Combining tender chunks of BBQ chicken with gooey cheese and savory spices, this dish is easy to make and ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Let’s dive into how to make this delectable dish from scratch!

2. Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably BBQ-flavored)
• 12 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk for creaminess
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings include chopped green onions, crispy bacon, or extra BBQ sauce for drizzling. For a modern twist, check out some creamy chicken pasta recipes to inspire your next meal!

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Prepare the Pasta

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

Cook the Aromatics and Chicken

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the shredded BBQ chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes to warm through.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Add the heavy cream or milk to the skillet, then stir in the BBQ sauce. Let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes until heated through. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat in the sauce. Sprinkle in the shredded cheeses—cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan—and stir until melted and smooth, creating a creamy, cheesy coating on the pasta.

Serve and Garnish

Divide the BBQ chicken mac and cheese among serving bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions, extra BBQ sauce, or crispy bacon if desired. Serve hot for the ultimate comfort food experience!

4. Storage Tips

Store leftover BBQ chicken mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

5. Serving Suggestions for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. For a complete meal, you might consider adding some roasted veggies or a side of coleslaw. Elevate your presentation with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro!

6. Frequently Asked Questions about BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked BBQ chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves time. Just shred the chicken and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, by using gluten-free pasta, you can make this recipe suitable for gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

How long does it take to prepare?

Overall, this recipe takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: This versatile cookware set ensures even heat distribution, making cooking and melting cheese effortless.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Prepare ingredients quickly and efficiently with this great kitchen gadget to chop onions and garlic.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: Perfect for cooking shredded chicken if you prefer a hands-off approach, yielding tender, flavorful BBQ chicken.
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1: For crispy bacon or topping garnish, this air fryer enhances texture without added oil.

8. Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Use a good-quality BBQ sauce for rich flavor.
• Shred the cooked chicken finely for even coating.
• Mix cheeses thoroughly for a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Adjust the spice levels by adding more paprika or hot sauce.

9. Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to comfort and satisfy. This dish effortlessly combines smoky BBQ flavors with creamy cheesy goodness, making it a favorite for all ages. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a quick comfort meal, this recipe will become your go-to favorite. Give it a try today and enjoy a delightful twist on classic comfort food!

Delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

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A creamy, cheesy macaroni dish combined with smoky BBQ chicken pieces, garnished with fresh herbs for an irresistibly flavorful meal.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

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• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 pound cooked BBQ chicken, shredded or chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup creamy cheese sauce
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine the cheese sauce with shredded BBQ chicken and stir well.
3. Add cooked macaroni to the mixture and mix until evenly coated.
4. Optional: Stir in bacon bits for extra crunch.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then transfer to a serving dish.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley before serving.

Notes

• Use leftover grilled chicken for added flavor.
• You can substitute regular cheese with pepper jack for some spice.
• For a spicy kick, add hot sauce or jalapenos.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Nut-Free

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 650 Kcal
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 120mg