Perfect BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese: 1 Amazing Recipe

BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese has been my go-to comfort food for years, especially when I need a quick yet incredibly satisfying meal. I remember the first time I perfected this recipe; the aroma of smoky chicken and bubbling cheese filled my kitchen, and my family devoured it in minutes! It’s that perfect blend of savory, tangy BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and gloriously gooey pasta that just makes everything feel right. This isn’t just any mac and cheese; it’s a hearty BBQ Chicken Macaroni and Cheese that transforms a weeknight dinner into a special occasion. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Easy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

• It’s the ultimate comfort food mashup, blending two fan favorites into one amazing dish.
• The flavors are a knockout: smoky BBQ chicken meets rich, tangy cheese sauce.
• You get that incredible Creamy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese texture that coats every noodle perfectly.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to disappear fast at any gathering.
• This recipe is surprisingly simple, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
• You can whip up this delicious Quick BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese even on busy evenings.
• It’s incredibly versatile – easily customizable with your favorite cheeses and BBQ sauce.
• The combination of tender chicken and cheesy pasta is pure bliss in every bite.

Ingredients for Homemade BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first delicious step toward creating a truly unforgettable Gooey BBQ Chicken Macaroni Cheese. I always make sure to have everything ready before I start mixing, which makes the process so much smoother.

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni – cooked al dente, your pasta base
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – rotisserie chicken works wonders here!
• 1 cup BBQ sauce – pick your favorite, smoky or sweet
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – for that classic tangy bite
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for that essential stretchy, gooey pull
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened – this is key for an ultra-creamy sauce
• 1 cup milk – helps create the perfect sauce consistency
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – adds a subtle savory depth
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – complements the garlic nicely
• ¼ teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – a little zing
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs – for a delightful crispy topping
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted – to toast those breadcrumbs

How to Make BBQ Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

Get ready to create the most comforting and delicious dish! This recipe for BBQ Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is straightforward and yields amazing results. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your masterpiece doesn’t stick.
2. Step 2: Cook 8 ounces elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. You want it tender but with a slight bite, as it will cook more in the oven. Drain it well and set it aside.
3. Step 3: In a medium bowl, toss the 2 cups shredded cooked chicken with 1 cup BBQ sauce. Make sure every piece of chicken is nicely coated in that smoky, tangy sauce.
4. Step 4: In a medium saucepan, gently heat 1 cup milk and ½ cup softened cream cheese over medium heat. Whisk constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is the base for our luxuriously cheesy sauce.
5. Step 5: Stir in the seasonings: ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
6. Step 6: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat every noodle. Then, fold in the BBQ chicken mixture. The colors will start to look amazing!
7. Step 7: Now, stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Reserve a small handful of each for topping later. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is beautifully combined. You’re creating a true BBQ chicken pasta bake here!
8. Step 8: Pour the cheesy pasta and chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
9. Step 9: In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. This adds a wonderful crunchy texture.
10. Step 10: Sprinkle the reserved cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the breadcrumb topping. This ensures a golden, cheesy crust.
11. Step 11: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown. The aroma of this Smoked BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese will fill your home!
12. Step 12: Let the dish rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy.

Pro Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese

Want to elevate your BBQ Chicken Macaroni and Cheese from good to absolutely incredible? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. These simple tips will ensure your dish is always a hit, whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

• Use a combination of cheeses for the best flavor and melt. Sharp cheddar provides tang, while mozzarella offers that irresistible stretch.
• Don’t overcook your pasta! It should be al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven, preventing mushy noodles.
• Taste and adjust seasonings before baking. You want the flavors to be perfectly balanced before they go into the oven.
• Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of smoky depth.

What’s the secret to perfect BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese?

The secret to truly perfect Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta lies in the creamy sauce base. Using softened cream cheese with milk creates an ultra-velvety texture that coats every noodle beautifully, making your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese simply divine.

Can I make BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish, minus the breadcrumb topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Add the topping just before baking, and you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese?

A common pitfall is using dry chicken; ensure your chicken is moist by using rotisserie chicken or adding a little extra BBQ sauce. Also, don’t overmix the pasta and cheese sauce, as this can make the sauce greasy. Finally, always grate your own cheese for the best meltability.

Best Ways to Serve Your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Once your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is out of the oven and has rested for a few minutes, it’s ready to be served piping hot. This dish is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides that cut through the richness.

For a classic BBQ experience, serve alongside a crisp coleslaw or a fresh green salad. The cool crunch of coleslaw is a perfect counterpoint to the warm, gooey pasta. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with corn on the cob or baked beans. For a truly Southern-inspired feast, imagine serving this Pulled BBQ Chicken Macaroni Cheese with some tender pulled pork on the side – talk about a flavor explosion!

Nutrition Facts for BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese

This BBQ Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is a hearty and satisfying dish. The exact nutritional values can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use, especially the BBQ sauce and cheeses.

• Calories: Approx. 550-650 per serving
• Fat: Approx. 30-40g
• Saturated Fat: Approx. 15-20g
• Protein: Approx. 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: Approx. 50-60g
• Fiber: Approx. 2-4g
• Sugar: Approx. 8-12g
• Sodium: Approx. 700-900mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Leftovers of this incredible BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese casserole are almost as good as the first serving! Once it’s cooled slightly after baking, transfer any remaining portions to an airtight container. Storing it properly ensures it stays delicious for your next meal. This dish is fantastic for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze.

You can keep your delicious mac and cheese in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Gently reheat individual servings in the microwave, stirring halfway through, or bake a larger portion in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese

What is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious fusion dish that combines the smoky, tangy flavors of barbecue chicken with the creamy, comforting texture of classic macaroni and cheese. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that brings together tender shredded chicken coated in BBQ sauce, mixed with cheesy pasta and often baked with a crispy topping.

How to make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Making BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is quite straightforward! You’ll typically start by cooking your pasta and preparing the BBQ chicken. Then, you create a creamy cheese sauce, often involving cream cheese and milk, into which you fold the pasta, chicken, and shredded cheeses. Everything is then baked until bubbly and golden, often with a breadcrumb topping for crunch. It’s a wonderfully rewarding process!

Can I use different kinds of BBQ sauce?

Absolutely! The beauty of this dish is its versatility. Experimenting with different BBQ sauces is a fantastic way to change up the flavor profile. Whether you prefer a sweet and smoky sauce, a spicy chipotle option, or a tangy vinegar-based sauce, each will lend its unique character to your BBQ Chicken Macaroni and Cheese. Don’t be afraid to try a few to find your favorite!

What pasta shapes work best for BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese?

Elbow macaroni is a classic choice for a reason – it holds the creamy sauce beautifully. However, many other pasta shapes work wonderfully for this BBQ chicken pasta bake. Consider using shells, penne, rotini, or even cavatappi. Any pasta with nooks and crannies will help capture that delicious cheesy, saucy goodness, making every bite a delight.

Variations of BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese You Can Try

This BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese is already amazing, but there are so many fun ways to switch it up! Whether you’re looking for a different flavor profile, a dietary twist, or a different cooking method, these variations will keep things exciting. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your comfort food!

• BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with bacon: For an extra layer of savory crunch, sprinkle crumbled crispy bacon over the top before baking, or mix it into the pasta mixture. It adds a wonderful smoky, salty element that pairs perfectly with the BBQ flavors.
• BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese without oven: No oven? No problem! You can achieve a delicious stovetop version. Simply combine all the ingredients in a large pot after preparing the cheese sauce and chicken, stirring until everything is heated through and gooey. It’s a fantastic option for a quick meal.
• Spicy BBQ Chicken Macaroni Cheese: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or use a spicier BBQ sauce. You could also mix in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Smoked Chicken Mac and Cheese: For a deeper, more intense smoky flavor, use chicken that has been smoked. This adds a wonderful complexity that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully and takes your mac and cheese to a whole new level.

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