Irresistible BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe Delight

Imagine sinking your fork into a creamy, cheesy bowl of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. The rich flavors of smoky barbecue sauce meld with tender chicken and the gooey goodness of melted cheese, creating a dish that dances on your taste buds. quick chicken parmesan This comforting meal is perfect for cozy nights in or lively gatherings with friends, where laughter and good food collide. cozy taco pasta recipe.

Now, picture this: it’s a sunny Saturday afternoon, and I’ve invited friends over for a casual hangout. As the aroma of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese wafts through the air, their eyes widen with anticipation. honey roasted chicken and squash This dish doesn’t just fill bellies; it fills hearts with joy and nostalgia, reminding us all of simpler times around the dinner table.

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family; their delighted reactions were priceless!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for a hearty serving or adjust based on your crowd size.

• BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce for the best flavor profile.

• Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to experiment with shapes like shells or cavatappi.

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives this dish an extra kick of flavor; use freshly grated for optimal melting.

• Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; don’t skimp here unless you’re avoiding dairy.

• Butter: Unsalted butter enhances flavors without adding too much salt.

• Flour: All-purpose flour helps create the roux for that creamy cheese sauce.

• Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper elevate the flavor to new heights.

• Bread Crumbs (optional): For added crunch on top if you enjoy some texture contrast.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt before tossing in 8 ounces of elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Sauté the Chicken: While pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add diced boneless chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown and cooked through. zesty Cajun chicken pasta.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In another saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 4 tablespoons of flour until combined; gradually add 2 cups of milk while whisking until smooth and thickened.

Add Cheddar Goodness : Remove sauce from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Let that oozy goodness flow!

Combine Everything : Drain pasta and return it to the pot. Pour in the cheese sauce along with 1 cup of BBQ sauce and mix well until everything is coated in cheesy delight.

Bake to Perfection (optional): For an extra crunchy topping, transfer pasta mixture to a baking dish; sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly.

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Your kitchen will smell divine as all those flavors meld together beautifully. Grab your forks because it’s time to dig in! Enjoy every cheesy bite while basking in compliments from friends or family—trust me; they won’t be able to resist asking for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this jalapeno buffalo chicken casserole recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta first while grilling the chicken. Then, blend them with the cheesy sauce for a delightful mix.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for pulled pork or add vegetables like broccoli. Spice it up with jalapeños for an extra kick! For more inspiration, check out this chicken, rice, and broccoli recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Cooking this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese always brings back fond memories of my family’s cookouts, where laughter and delicious food filled the air.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes, store-bought BBQ sauce works great if you’re short on time.

How do I make it spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to ramp up the heat.

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container before freezing.

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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

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• Author: Luna Martinez
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful fusion of smoky barbecue flavors, tender chicken, and creamy cheese that will elevate your comfort food game. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. With every cheesy bite, you’ll be transported back to joyous times around the dinner table, making it a must-try for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs for topping (optional)

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Instructions

1. 1. Cook pasta: Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook elbow macaroni for about 8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2. Sauté chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat, season diced chicken with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
3. 3. Make cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until combined; gradually whisk in milk until thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
4. 4. Combine: In the pot with pasta, mix in the cheese sauce and BBQ sauce until well combined.
5. 5. Bake (optional): For a crunchy topping, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 860mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg