BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender shredded chicken, and a smoky BBQ twist, this recipe stands out as a comforting high-protein meal that everyone will love. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it an instant favorite for both adults and kids.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Pasta
• For the Cheese Sauce
• For Flavoring
• For Garnish
• How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Heat the Chicken
• Step 3: Combine Chicken with BBQ Sauce
• Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
• Step 5: Mix Everything Together
• Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
• Family Style
• Individual Bowls
• With Extra BBQ Sauce
• Garnished with Herbs
• Paired with Bread
• As Leftovers
• How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
• Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
• Reheating BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other types of cheese in BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
• How can I customize my BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
• Is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese suitable for meal prep?
• What is the best way to serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Twist: Combining BBQ chicken with classic mac and cheese creates a unique flavor experience that will delight your taste buds.
• High Protein: With generous portions of chicken and cheese, this dish offers a satisfying protein boost perfect for active lifestyles.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish at gatherings; it’s sure to please any crowd.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make this recipe appealing to kids, making mealtime enjoyable for the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Saucepan
• Colander
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the shredded chicken quickly while allowing enough space to mix in the BBQ sauce.
• Saucepan: Perfect for melting the cheese into a smooth sauce without burning it.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta efficiently after cooking, ensuring it’s ready to mix with the cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

For this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pasta

• 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice

For the Cheese Sauce

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred)

For Flavoring

• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta according to package instructions. Once done, drain it using a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. When hot, stir in your shredded chicken. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Step 3: Combine Chicken with BBQ Sauce

Add in your BBQ sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the chicken is coated in the flavorful sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In another saucepan over medium heat, pour in the milk. Gradually stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Keep stirring until you achieve a smooth cheese sauce.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Add your cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined. Then fold in your BBQ chicken mixture carefully until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your dish! If necessary, adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper according to your preference.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot on plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for an extra pop of color!

Enjoy your tasty BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese! This dish not only satisfies but also provides a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing for meal prep, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

Family Style

• Serve the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in a large baking dish. This allows everyone to help themselves, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Individual Bowls

• For a more personalized approach, serve in individual bowls. Top each bowl with extra cheese or crispy fried onions for added texture.

With Extra BBQ Sauce

• Drizzle additional BBQ sauce over the top before serving. This enhances the smoky flavor and adds an appealing visual touch.

Garnished with Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top right before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate.

Paired with Bread

• Serve alongside garlic bread or soft rolls. These options are perfect for soaking up the cheesy goodness left on your plate.

As Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in airtight containers. Reheat in the microwave for an easy, delicious meal throughout the week.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

To achieve the best BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, follow these helpful tips for an even tastier experience.

• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents which can affect melting. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a creamier sauce.
• Adjust the BBQ sauce: Different brands offer varying levels of sweetness and smokiness. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance that suits your palate.
• Experiment with pasta shapes: While elbow macaroni is classic, try using shells or penne for different textures and flavors in each bite.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color. They can also enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
• Make it spicy: If you enjoy heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your mac and cheese an extra kick.
• Bake for a crispy topping: For a crunchy finish, transfer your mixture to a baking dish and broil it for a few minutes after mixing everything together.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A classic side that offers crunch and tanginess, complementing the rich flavors of mac and cheese beautifully.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds a lovely contrast in flavor and texture. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred veggies like zucchini or bell peppers provide freshness while balancing out the heaviness of mac and cheese.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and great for scooping up cheesy goodness from your plate.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with vinegar adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the main dish.
6. Baked Beans: The sweet notes of baked beans pair wonderfully with BBQ flavors, making them an ideal side choice.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs can add satisfying crunch alongside your creamy mac and cheese.
8. Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad brings crisp romaine lettuce together with creamy dressing, creating a delightful contrast to the rich pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, a few common pitfalls can impact the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold chicken: Starting with cold shredded chicken can lead to uneven heating. Always warm your chicken in the skillet before adding it to the sauce.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions closely and aim for al dente for the best texture.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can dull the flavors of your dish. Taste your mixture as you go and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and spices.
• Skipping the cheese sauce: Neglecting to make a proper cheese sauce can result in clumpy cheese. Ensure you melt the cheese slowly and stir continuously for a smooth texture.
• Rushing the mixing process: Not mixing thoroughly can leave you with uneven flavors. Take your time to fold in all ingredients until well combined.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that might help you while preparing this delicious dish.

Can I use other types of cheese in BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor.

How can I customize my BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

You can add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition or switch up the protein with pulled pork or turkey.

Is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it convenient for busy days.

What is the best way to serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Serve it hot as a main course, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is not only a comforting classic but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting seasonings. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or part of your meal prep routine, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try today!