Irresistible BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe Delight

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the smoky flavor of barbecue chicken. The first bite transports you to a backyard barbecue, where laughter fills the air and the smell of grilled chicken wafts invitingly all around. creamy chicken tortellini dish creamy cheesy pasta dish delicious butter chicken recipe.

Imagine digging into a bubbling bowl of this comfort food masterpiece, where tender pasta mingles with succulent chicken and a rich cheese sauce. taco pasta for a cozy dinner It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to gather your friends and family for a cozy dinner or bring it to your next potluck.

Sharing this dish at my last family gathering led to cheers of delight from my kids and even some happy dance moves from my husband.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on your crowd size or hunger levels.

• Elbow Macaroni: Choose high-quality pasta; it holds the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is satisfying.

• Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a rich flavor; feel free to mix in some mozzarella for stretchiness.

• BBQ Sauce: Select your favorite brand or homemade version; this will add that essential smoky sweetness.

• Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess; a splash of heavy cream can elevate the richness.

• Butter: Unsalted butter is perfect here; it allows you to control salt levels in the final dish.

• Flour: All-purpose flour thickens the cheese sauce nicely, creating that lovely creamy texture we crave.

• Spices: A pinch of garlic powder and paprika adds depth; don’t skip these small but mighty flavor boosters!

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Chicken: Start by preheating your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C). Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them on the grill until cooked through.

Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is grilling, boil water in a large pot. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente.

Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Stir in flour for about two minutes until golden before gradually whisking in milk until smooth.

Add Cheese and Spices: Reduce heat to low while stirring in cheddar cheese until melted. Toss in garlic powder and paprika for an extra flavor kick!

Mingle Everything Together: Once the pasta is ready, drain it and return it to the pot. Pour in cheese sauce along with shredded BBQ chicken and mix well.

Bake Until Bubbling: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Now you have a soul-satisfying BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that will leave everyone wanting seconds! Enjoy sharing this comforting plate of joy at your next gathering or as an indulgent weeknight meal. For more inspiration, check out this Sticky Honey Chicken recipe recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by searing the chicken first to lock in flavors, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This sequence ensures everything comes together beautifully without any awkward waiting.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the cheese for a sharper variety or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Personalizing this dish not only enhances flavor but also adds nutritional value.

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, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Creating this dish always brings back memories of potlucks where my friends would sneak back for seconds, raving about how delicious it was.

FAQ

Can I use leftover BBQ chicken?

Yes, using leftover BBQ chicken saves time and enhances flavor in your mac and cheese.

What type of cheese is best for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold flavor that complements the smoky BBQ sauce.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu marinated in BBQ sauce for a delicious vegetarian option.