BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese – CookTune

Succulent BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight 🧀🍗🔥

1. Introduction

Are you craving a comforting dish packed with bold flavors and cheesy goodness? Look no further than this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe, a mouthwatering combination of tender grilled chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, and creamy cheese pasta. Perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings, this cheesy chicken casserole offers a delightful twist on classic comfort food. With its savory notes and irresistible texture, it’s guaranteed to satisfy everyone at your table.

2. Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

• 2 cups cooked and shredded grilled chicken (or use leftover rotisserie chicken)
• 3 cups elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

3. How to Make the Best BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook your pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If you haven’t already, grill or bake chicken breasts and shred them. You can also use store-bought cooked chicken for convenience.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in barbecue sauce and milk or heavy cream, heating until well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add cooked pasta and shredded chicken to the sauce. Stir until evenly coated. Sprinkle in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses and stir until melted and creamy.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

Transfer to serving dishes and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. For an extra crispy top, consider broiling for a few minutes.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Reheating ensures your cheesy chicken casserole remains delicious and flavorful.

5. Perfect Serving Suggestions

This BBQ chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. For an added crunch, top with crispy bacon bits or fried onions. Want to elevate your meal? Pair it with a cold beer or a refreshing iced tea.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken instead of grilling?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time, making this pizza even easier to prepare. Simply shred and toss into the sauce mixture.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

This version is rich in carbs due to pasta, but you can substitute regular pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Check out our low-carb chicken casserole recipe for ideas.

How long does it take to prepare?

It takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick yet satisfying meal for busy weeknights.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Perfect for chopping vegetables or preparing toppings to add a fresh touch to your dish.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Keep your beverages chilled while enjoying this hearty casserole.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.

Investing in these kitchen tools can enhance your cooking experience and make meal preparation quicker and more enjoyable!

8. Conclusion

In summary, this Succulent BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines smoky barbecue flavor with creamy cheesy pasta for a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving comfort food, this grilled chicken mac and cheese offers a foolproof way to satisfy your taste buds. Try it out and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that everyone will love!

Succulent BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

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A flavorful combination of creamy cheese sauce and smoky BBQ chicken, baked until bubbly, perfect for a quick and hearty dinner

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

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• 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cooked BBQ chicken
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add heavy cream and Dijon mustard, whisk until smooth. Cook until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in shredded cheeses and barbecue sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
5. Combine cheese sauce with cooked macaroni and BBQ chicken. Transfer to a baking dish.
6. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Notes

• For extra smoky flavor, add smoked paprika or smoked gouda cheese.
• This dish can be prepared ahead and baked later for convenience.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Method: Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Comfort

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 580 Kcal
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 105mg