I remember being a picky eater as a kid, but there was one dish that could always coax me out of my shell: mac and cheese. Add in the smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors of barbecue, and you had pure magic. Now, I’ve taken it to the next level by combining that nostalgic favorite with tender, juicy chicken to create what I truly believe is the ultimate comfort food: BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese- The Ultimate Comfort Food. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese- The Ultimate Comfort Food you’ll ever make! Get ready to fall in love.
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Symphony of Flavors
Oh, my friend, prepare yourself for a flavor explosion! BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the creamy, cheesy goodness of classic mac and cheese elevated to superstar status with the addition of smoky, savory barbecue chicken. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, game day gatherings, or whenever you need a big, comforting hug in a bowl. I promise, this will become a family favorite in no time.
What makes this dish truly special is the beautiful balance of textures and tastes. The creamy, smooth mac and cheese, the tender, juicy chicken, the smoky-sweet barbecue sauce, and maybe even a sprinkle of crispy bacon or toasted breadcrumbs…it’s pure culinary bliss. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make!
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Perfection
Let’s gather our ingredients. Don’t worry, most of these are pantry staples, and I’ll even give you some substitution suggestions if you’re missing something.
Pasta: 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape – shells, cavatappi, or even rotini work beautifully).
Chicken: 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, bake or poach chicken breasts, or even try my Shredded Chicken recipe for a super easy meal prep option.
BBQ Sauce: 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. Use store-bought, or get adventurous and make your own! If you’re feeling ambitious, my BBQ Sauce recipe is fantastic.
Butter: 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter. This is the foundation of our roux, which makes our cheese sauce oh-so-creamy.
Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. This helps thicken the cheese sauce.
Milk: 3 cups whole milk. Whole milk is best for richness, but 2% will also work.
Cheese:
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your preference!)
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for extra meltiness)
Spices:
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Optional Toppings: Cooked bacon, chopped green onions, toasted breadcrumbs, a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Magic
Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a bowl of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese- The Ultimate Comfort Food in no time.
1. Cook the pasta: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Remember, we want it slightly undercooked because it will continue to cook in the cheese sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the roux: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This mixture is called a roux, and it’s essential for a smooth, creamy cheese sauce. You want to cook out the raw flour taste, but be careful not to burn it.
3. Whisk in the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, making sure to whisk out any lumps before adding more. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step! Patience is key to a creamy sauce.
4. Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, a handful at a time, stirring until melted and smooth after each addition. Keep stirring until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is velvety.
5. Season the sauce: Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This is your chance to make it your own! A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick.
6. Combine everything: Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the cheesy goodness.
7. Add the BBQ sauce: Gently fold in the BBQ sauce, being careful not to overmix. You want streaks of BBQ sauce throughout the mac and cheese, not a completely uniform color. This creates pockets of flavor that are just heavenly.
8. Bake (optional): For an extra layer of deliciousness, you can transfer the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to a greased baking dish and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
9. Serve and enjoy! Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like cooked bacon, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce.
Optional Variations:
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
Smoked Gouda: Substitute some of the cheddar cheese with smoked gouda for a deeper, smokier flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or corn.
Crumbled Bacon: Cook and crumble bacon and add it to the mixture right before serving for a salty, smoky crunch.
Success Tips for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Perfection
Okay, my friend, I want you to succeed! Here are my golden rules for making the most amazing BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese of your life. Follow these tips, and you’ll be a mac and cheese master in no time.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Nobody likes mushy mac and cheese! Cook the pasta al dente (slightly firm to the bite) because it will continue to cook in the cheese sauce.
Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheese ensures a creamy, melty sauce.
Low and slow is the way to go: Melt the cheese over low heat to prevent it from clumping or separating. Patience is key!
Don’t be afraid to experiment with BBQ sauce: There are so many amazing BBQ sauces out there! Try different flavors until you find your perfect match. Sweet, smoky, spicy… the possibilities are endless! You might even like to whip up a batch of BBQ Chicken Crockpot to get some chicken already prepared and perfectly flavored!
Make it ahead: You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add the BBQ chicken and bake as directed.
Elevate Your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: Tips and Tricks
Let’s delve a little deeper, shall we? I’ve got a few extra tips and tricks up my sleeve to help you take your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to the next level.
The Secret to a Super Creamy Cheese Sauce: Use a combination of cheeses! Cheddar provides that classic mac and cheese flavor, but adding Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a little cream cheese can create an incredibly creamy and decadent sauce.
Adding Depth of Flavor: Consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of savory flavor.
Crispy Topping Options: If you’re baking the mac and cheese, try topping it with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crispy, golden crust. Alternatively, crushed Ritz crackers or even crumbled potato chips can add a delicious salty crunch.
Making it a Complete Meal: Serve your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with a side of coleslaw, cornbread, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Or, if you are looking for other ways to combine chicken, cheese and pasta, why not try Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta.
Use Crockpot BBQ Chicken: Another great way to add chicken is to use Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Why BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is More Than Just Food
Beyond the delicious taste, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese- The Ultimate Comfort Food represents something more profound. It’s a symbol of comfort, nostalgia, and connection. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, evokes fond memories, and makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside.
Think about it: Mac and cheese is a childhood staple, often associated with happy memories and carefree days. Barbecue, on the other hand, is synonymous with summer cookouts, family gatherings, and good times. When you combine these two classic comfort foods, you create something truly special. It’s a dish that transcends generations and appeals to everyone, young and old. The same can be said of Chicken & Rice Casserole, another recipe loved by many.
Storing and Reheating Your Leftovers
Okay, so you managed to not eat the whole pan in one sitting (impressive!). Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers so you can enjoy them again later:
Storing: Let the mac and cheese cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating:
Microwave: For a quick reheat, microwave individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You might need to add a splash of milk to rehydrate the sauce.
Oven: For a larger batch, reheat the mac and cheese in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from drying out.
Stovetop: Reheat the mac and cheese in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cream to keep it from drying out.
The Verdict: Your New Go-To Comfort Food
There you have it, my friend! My recipe for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese- The Ultimate Comfort Food. I hope you give it a try and discover just how amazing this dish truly is. It’s easy to make, customizable to your liking, and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese will become a new favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
What are some good substitutions if I don’t have all the ingredients on hand?
The recipe suggests using any pasta shape you prefer instead of elbow macaroni. For the chicken, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken, bake or poach chicken breasts, or use the provided Shredded Chicken recipe. You can also use store-bought BBQ sauce if you don’t want to make your own.
How can I prevent my cheese sauce from being grainy or clumpy?
The article emphasizes the importance of grating your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains cellulose that can hinder smooth melting. It also recommends melting the cheese over low heat, stirring constantly, to prevent clumping or separation.
How do I store and reheat leftovers of the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Let the mac and cheese cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave, larger batches in the oven, or in a saucepan on the stovetop. Adding a splash of milk or cream when reheating can help rehydrate the sauce.
What are some ways to customize the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
The recipe suggests adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a spicy BBQ sauce for a spicy kick. You can substitute some of the cheddar cheese with smoked gouda for a deeper flavor. For a vegetarian option, you can omit the chicken and add roasted vegetables. Adding cooked and crumbled bacon also works well.
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Heaven
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, making sure to whisk out any lumps before adding more. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken (about 5-7 minutes).
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, a handful at a time, stirring until melted and smooth after each addition. Keep stirring until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is velvety.
- Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that the pasta and chicken are evenly coated.
- Gently fold in the BBQ sauce, being careful not to overmix. You want streaks of BBQ sauce throughout the mac and cheese.
- Optional: Transfer the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like cooked bacon, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce.