why make this recipe
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a mouthwatering dish that combines two beloved favorites: mac and cheese and BBQ chicken. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings because it is simple to make, hearty, and satisfying. The combination of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and tangy BBQ sauce adds a delicious twist to traditional mac and cheese. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken and can quickly become a family favorite!
how to make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred)
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes to warm it through.
- Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken in the sauce.
- In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Then, fold in the BBQ chicken mixture and continue stirring until everything is well mixed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
how to serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese can be served as a main dish. It pairs nicely with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also top it with extra BBQ sauce or cheese for added flavor. Enjoy it hot for the best taste!
how to store BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
To store leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
tips to make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on what you have on hand.
- Add veggies like cooked broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture.
variation
You can make this dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken with grilled vegetables or black beans. You can also try different BBQ sauces to switch up the flavor profile, such as honey BBQ for a sweeter taste or spicy BBQ for some heat.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Penne, fusilli, or shells work well for this recipe.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can mix in diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
3. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice Any pasta shape works.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to mix and match cheeses.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred)
- ½ cup BBQ sauce Use your favorite brand.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Preparing Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes to warm it through.
- Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken in the sauce.
Making Cheese Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Then, fold in the BBQ chicken mixture and continue stirring until everything is well mixed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
