This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that blends cheesy goodness with smoky barbecue flavor. It’s a fun twist on the classic mac and cheese that everyone loves. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or just a cozy night in. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, it satisfies both kids and adults alike.

Why Make This Recipe

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a great choice for many reasons. First, it combines two favorite dishes: mac and cheese and barbecue chicken. This makes it an exciting meal that can make any day feel special. The creamy cheese sauce pairs perfectly with the tangy BBQ chicken, creating a harmony of flavors.

Additionally, this recipe is quite easy to prepare. You can whip it up even on busy weeknights. Using leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken saves time and makes cooking easier. Plus, kids can join in on the fun by helping mix the ingredients.

This dish is versatile. You can adjust the BBQ sauce to make it spicier or sweeter according to your taste. It is filling and satisfying, which makes it great for feeding a crowd. Lastly, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese holds well, making leftovers easy to reheat for lunch the next day.

In summary, this dish provides a tasty and comforting meal that delights everyone at the table.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Making BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is simple and straightforward. Here’s how you can do it. First, gather your ingredients: macaroni, cooked chicken, BBQ sauce, cheese (like cheddar and mozzarella), milk, butter, and some seasonings like salt and pepper.

Start by cooking the macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain it and set it aside. In a separate pot, melt some butter over medium heat. Add milk and bring it to a gentle simmer. Then, stir in the cheese until it melts and becomes creamy.

Next, add in the drained macaroni and the cooked chicken. Pour in the BBQ sauce and mix everything well. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Once it is all combined and heated through, transfer the mixture to a baking dish. You can top it with extra cheese or breadcrumbs if you like a crispy topping.

Finally, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden. Now your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is ready to serve!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serving BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is as easy as it is to make! Once the dish is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the cheese set a little. You can serve it directly from the baking dish, or if you want to impress your guests, scoop it into individual bowls.

To enhance the meal, you can garnish the mac and cheese with fresh chopped parsley or green onions. This adds a nice splash of color. If you’re serving this dish at a gathering, consider pairing it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

For a family dinner, let everyone take a generous scoop. Kids love it, and adults appreciate the flavors. You can even offer extra BBQ sauce on the side for those who want a stronger flavor. Enjoying this comforting, cheesy delight is guaranteed to bring everyone together.

How to Store BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Storing BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is simple. If you have leftovers, let the dish cool down completely before storing it. Place the mac and cheese in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Transfer the mac and cheese to a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese can stay fresh in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months.

When you are ready to eat it again, simply reheat it. If it is frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. You can then reheat it in a microwave or an oven. Add a splash of milk if it seems too thick after being stored. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dish even days after making it!

Tips to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Here are some tips to help you make the best BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. First, use quality cheese for a creamy texture. Mild cheddar and mozzarella mix well, but feel free to try sharp cheddar or gouda for more flavor.

Additionally, don’t overcook the pasta. It should be al dente, as it will cook more in the oven. If you want extra flavor, consider adding garlic or onions sautéed in butter before mixing in the cheese sauce.

Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce according to your taste. Some people like it sweeter, while others prefer a smokier flavor. For those who love a bit of heat, adding a splash of hot sauce can boost the flavors.

Finally, if you want an extra crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle it on top before baking. This will add a delightful texture to your dish!

Variation

There are several delightful variations of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. You could swap out the chicken for pulled pork for a different take. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.

Adding some veggies, like spinach or broccoli, can boost the nutrition of this dish. You can also mix in different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or cream cheese for extra creaminess. Feel free to get creative and customize the recipe to your liking!

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
Yes, using store-bought BBQ sauce is convenient and saves time. Choose a flavor you like!

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge for a day before baking.

3. Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag.

4. How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat it in the microwave or oven. If it seems dry, add a splash of milk to help it back to its creamy texture.

5. What kind of pasta should I use?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use any type of pasta you enjoy, such as shells or penne.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting dish that blends cheesy goodness with smoky barbecue flavor, making it a fun twist on the classic mac and cheese.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Optional: breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions

Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Melt butter in a pot over medium heat, then add milk and bring to a simmer.
Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy.
Add the drained macaroni and cooked chicken to the cheesy mixture.
Pour in the BBQ sauce, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs if desired.
Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or sautéed onions to the cheese sauce. Adjust BBQ sauce to taste for sweetness or spiciness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: BBQ Chicken, Mac and Cheese, Comfort Food, Family Dinner