This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of smoky, savory BBQ chicken and rich, gooey cheese. The creamy sauce envelops every bite of macaroni, creating a decadent and satisfying dish that everyone will love. The crisp, golden top adds texture, while the tender chicken brings a hearty, filling element.
This dish is ideal for a weeknight family dinner or a weekend gathering. It combines comfort food with a touch of BBQ flair, making it a crowd-pleaser. The creamy cheese sauce and smoky chicken pair perfectly with the pasta, while a fresh cilantro garnish adds a burst of color and freshness. You can easily customize this dish with your favorite BBQ sauce or even add extra veggies for a well-rounded meal.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups cooked shredded chicken
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1 cup BBQ sauce
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2 cups elbow macaroni
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
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2 cups milk
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
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In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
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Gradually add the milk while whisking to create a smooth sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
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Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and stir until melted and smooth.
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, and BBQ sauce. Stir well to combine.
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Pour the macaroni mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and chicken mixture. Stir to combine.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 570 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Introduction to BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a mouthwatering combination of tender chicken, smoky barbecue flavors, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked macaroni. This dish brings together the best of both worlds: the comfort of classic mac and cheese and the bold, smoky taste of BBQ chicken. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that is hearty enough to satisfy your cravings and easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
A Delicious Fusion of Comfort and Flavor
Mac and cheese, a universally loved comfort food, has been reinvented countless times. Adding BBQ chicken to this already indulgent dish takes it to another level. The barbecue sauce infuses the chicken with a smoky, tangy flavor, while the creamy cheese sauce coats the macaroni, creating an irresistible texture. This fusion of flavors and textures results in a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
The History Behind BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
While traditional mac and cheese dates back centuries, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a more recent twist on this beloved classic. The dish likely emerged from the growing trend of combining traditional comfort foods with regional flavors. BBQ, particularly in the southern U.S., is famous for its smoky, tangy taste, and combining this with mac and cheese adds an exciting contrast of flavors. Whether you’re a fan of smoky barbecue or a mac and cheese enthusiast, this dish promises to deliver the best of both.
Why BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the Best
The beauty of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese lies in its balance. You get the creamy richness of the cheese, the smoky depth from the BBQ chicken, and the tender macaroni that soaks up all that goodness. It’s the perfect comfort food because it combines indulgent, familiar flavors with a touch of excitement. It’s a one-dish meal that provides protein, carbs, and healthy fats, making it not only delicious but satisfying.
Moreover, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is highly versatile. You can use different types of BBQ sauce, from tangy vinegar-based sauces to sweeter, molasses-heavy varieties, allowing for a personalized experience. You can also adjust the cheese blend to your liking, mixing sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even smoked gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Health Benefits of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
While this dish is indulgent, it does have some redeeming qualities. The chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The cheese, though rich, is a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamins A and D. The addition of whole wheat pasta can add extra fiber, making the dish a little healthier.
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients such as homemade barbecue sauce, fresh chicken, and whole grains in the pasta elevates the dish from just comfort food to a balanced meal. However, like any comfort dish, moderation is key to ensure it remains part of a healthy diet.
How to Customize BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
One of the best aspects of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is how easily it can be customized. If you’re a vegetarian, you can swap out the chicken for a meat substitute like tempeh or even grilled vegetables. For those looking to add more greens, you can toss in spinach or kale for a pop of color and additional nutrients.
You can also modify the level of spice in the BBQ sauce. Some prefer a mild sauce, while others enjoy the heat of a spicy variant. If you’re into extra cheesy dishes, don’t hesitate to add a variety of cheeses or even a dollop of cream cheese for extra richness.
The Perfect Meal for Every Occasion
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese isn’t just for weeknight dinners. It’s the perfect dish to serve at family gatherings, potlucks, or barbecues. Its universal appeal makes it a hit with both kids and adults. The creamy, cheesy goodness paired with smoky chicken and barbecue flavors makes it a standout dish at any gathering.
Moreover, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is easy to make in large quantities, ensuring that you have plenty to serve to guests. It can even be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few days, which makes it a great meal prep option for busy weeks.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
This dish can be served on its own or paired with a simple side salad for some freshness. A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the mac and cheese and adds a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, you could serve it alongside garlic bread or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.
For those who love a little extra crunch, topping the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs before baking adds a nice textural element. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley can also add color and a burst of freshness.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect marriage of comfort food and bold flavors. Whether you’re craving something cheesy, smoky, or both, this dish delivers. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. The smoky BBQ chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and tender macaroni work together harmoniously, making each bite more satisfying than the last. Whether served for a casual family dinner or at a gathering with friends, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time.