BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese blends creamy comfort with smoky barbecue flavor and tender protein packed chicken for a satisfyingly rich dinner. It comes together quickly on busy nights and is just as welcome for a laid back weekend meal. With the classic cheesiness of mac and cheese alongside bold BBQ touches this recipe is a family favorite that disappears fast from the table.

I first whipped this up when my nephews were visiting and the smiles at the table said it all. Now it is requested at every family get together.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast cooked and shredded: provides hearty texture and protein use rotisserie for extra tenderness
• Olive oil: helps keep chicken moist and adds flavor choose extra virgin for best taste
• Elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta: provides the creamy base use bronze die pasta for sauces to stick better
• Shredded cheddar cheese: adds bold flavor and classic yellow color opt for sharp cheddar to stand out
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: makes the dish extra melty and gooey low moisture melts best
• Milk: gives the sauce its creamy texture low fat keeps things lighter but whole milk is extra rich
• BBQ sauce: brings smoky tangy notes use a good quality sauce for balanced sweetness and smoke
• Garlic powder and onion powder: are flavor boosters make sure yours are fresh and not clumpy
• Smoked paprika: deepens the BBQ essence add more for extra smokiness
• Salt and pepper: customizable to taste use flaked sea salt if possible
• Fresh parsley: brightens up each bite adds freshness as garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente about eight minutes drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent sogginess in the finished dish

Warm and Season the Chicken:

In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium heat and add shredded chicken stir gently for two to three minutes just until heated through avoid letting it dry out

Mix With BBQ and Spices:

Pour BBQ sauce over chicken and sprinkle with garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt and pepper stir until every piece of chicken is coated and fragrant the spices should bloom in the hot sauce

Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a separate saucepan warm milk over medium heat do not boil slowly add shredded cheddar and mozzarella stirring constantly until the cheeses melt smoothly and no lumps remain this creamy foundation is key for silkiness

Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:

Add the drained pasta to the cheese mixture stir gently to fully coat every piece you want all pasta covered for even flavor

Fold in BBQ Chicken:

Gently mix the BBQ chicken into the cheesy pasta stir until totally combined and everything looks evenly sauced check for seasoning and add salt and pepper if needed

Serve and Garnish:

Dish up immediately while hot and gooey sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and burst of freshness

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The BBQ sauce is my personal favorite part it transforms classic mac and cheese into something unforgettable I once swapped in a spicy barbecue variety for a picnic and everyone begged for the recipe

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess Avoid freezing since dairy sauces can separate and become grainy

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience or swap in shredded turkey on hand For a smoky vegetarian version try using roasted smoked tofu cubes Instead of elbow macaroni any short pasta like penne or shells will work

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish hot straight out of the skillet for maximum gooeyness It shines on its own but also pairs wonderfully with steamed green beans or a bright salad For a party presentation top with crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of extra cheddar

Cultural and Historical Context

Mac and cheese is a beloved classic dating back to Colonial America adding BBQ chicken reflects American barbecue’s deep Southern roots and the tradition of combining comfort foods This mashup is a true example of how regional favorites can blend into one craveworthy meal

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Simply shred it before mixing with the BBQ sauce.

→ What cheeses melt best for this dish?

Shredded cheddar and mozzarella melt smoothly, creating a creamy sauce that blends well with the pasta and chicken.

→ Is it possible to use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any short pasta like penne or shells will hold the sauce well and offer a satisfying bite.

→ Can this be made ahead for meal prep?

Yes, store portions in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat gently with a splash of milk for best texture.

→ How do I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture for extra heat.