BBQ CHICKEN MAC HEAVEN

I’ll never forget the first time I tasted a truly great mac and cheese. It was at a friend’s barbecue, and it was the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with a tangy kick. It was so memorable, it was all I could think about for weeks! Ever since then, I’ve been on a quest to recreate that flavor explosion, and that’s how I landed on this incredible recipe. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese- Comfort Food Done Right you’ll ever make!

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: Comfort Food Redefined

Hey there, fellow comfort food enthusiast! If you’re anything like me, you believe that a bowl of mac and cheese can solve just about any problem. But what if we could elevate that comfort even further? Enter: BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. This is not your grandma’s mac and cheese (though I’m sure hers is amazing too!). We’re talking about a creamy, cheesy base, infused with smoky barbecue flavor, and studded with tender, juicy chicken. Seriously, prepare for a flavor explosion! It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a good movie and forget all your worries. So, let’s dive in and create some serious comfort food magic!

Why This Recipe Works

You might be thinking, “BBQ chicken and mac and cheese? Is that really a thing?” Oh, my friend, it is so a thing! The sweetness of the barbecue sauce perfectly complements the richness of the cheese sauce. And the chicken? It adds a delightful protein boost and smoky flavor that takes this dish to a whole new level. Here’s why this particular recipe is a winner:

• The Cheese Sauce: We’re using a blend of cheeses for maximum flavor and creaminess. No bland mac and cheese here!
• The BBQ Chicken: Whether you use leftover grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even quickly cooked chicken breast, the barbecue sauce adds a tangy sweetness that ties everything together.
• The Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but feel free to experiment with other shapes like shells, cavatappi, or even penne.
• The Toppings: Crispy bacon, green onions, and a sprinkle of extra cheese? Yes, please! Toppings add texture and flavor that take this dish from good to outstanding.

Gather Your Ingredients: The Comfort Food Arsenal

Okay, before we start cooking, let’s make sure we have everything we need. Don’t worry, the ingredient list is pretty straightforward, and you probably have a lot of these items already in your pantry and fridge. I always say that having the right ingredients is half the battle, so let’s get prepared!

• Pasta: 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
• Chicken: 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie, grilled, or baked)
• BBQ Sauce: 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (sweet, smoky, or spicy – your choice!)
• Butter: 1/4 cup (for the roux)
• Flour: 1/4 cup (for the roux)
• Milk: 3 cups (whole milk for extra creaminess, but any milk will work)
• Cheese: 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Cheese: 4 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• Cheese: 4 oz Gruyere cheese, shredded (optional, but highly recommended!)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Optional Toppings: Cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, extra shredded cheese, breadcrumbs

See? Nothing too scary! Remember, cooking should be fun and relaxing. Don’t be afraid to substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. That’s what makes cooking an adventure!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!

Alright, let’s get down to business! I’m going to walk you through each step of this recipe, so you can create the most amazing BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese you’ve ever tasted. Don’t worry, I’ll be right here with you, cheering you on every step of the way!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

First things first, let’s get that pasta cooking! Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package directions, but cook it al dente. This means slightly firm to the bite. Trust me, you don’t want mushy mac and cheese! Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the BBQ Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, let’s get that BBQ chicken ready. If you’re using leftover chicken, simply shred it and toss it with the BBQ sauce. If you’re cooking chicken from scratch, you have a few options:

• Rotisserie Chicken: This is the easiest option! Just shred the chicken and toss it with BBQ sauce.
• Grilled Chicken: Grill or pan-fry chicken breasts until cooked through. Shred them and toss with BBQ sauce.
• Baked Chicken: Bake chicken breasts at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Shred them and toss with BBQ sauce.

No matter how you cook your chicken, make sure it’s nicely coated with that delicious BBQ sauce. This is where the magic happens!

Step 3: Craft the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Now for the star of the show: the cheese sauce! This is where we create that creamy, dreamy base that will make your taste buds sing. Here’s how to do it:

1. Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Make the Roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Don’t let it burn!
3. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to break up any lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth.
4. Thicken the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. It should be able to coat the back of a spoon.
5. Add the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and Gruyere cheese (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Season to Perfection: Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Pro Tip: If your cheese sauce is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, cook it for a few more minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 4: Combine and Bake (Optional)

Now for the grand finale! It’s time to bring all the elements together and create our masterpiece. Here’s how to do it:

1. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and BBQ chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
2. Bake (Optional): If you want a bubbly, golden-brown top, pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with extra shredded cheese or breadcrumbs. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
3. Serve: If you’re not baking it, you can serve it straight from the saucepan!

Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy!

This is where you can really get creative! Top your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with your favorite toppings, such as:

• Crispy bacon
• Chopped green onions
• Extra shredded cheese
• A drizzle of BBQ sauce
• Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
• A sprinkle of paprika

Serve immediately and prepare for a chorus of “oohs” and “aahs”! This dish is best enjoyed hot, with a big smile on your face.

Tips and Tricks for Mac and Cheese Mastery

Okay, my friend, you’re well on your way to becoming a mac and cheese master! But before you go, I want to share a few extra tips and tricks to help you achieve mac and cheese perfection every time:

• Use a Variety of Cheeses: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses! Gruyere, Gouda, Fontina, and even pepper jack can add amazing flavor to your mac and cheese.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Remember, al dente is the way to go! Overcooked pasta will turn mushy 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 creamier sauce.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. These seasonings will enhance the flavor of the cheese sauce.
• Add a Pinch of Nutmeg: A tiny pinch of nutmeg can add a subtle warmth and complexity to your mac and cheese.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and bake it just before serving. This is a great option for parties or potlucks.
• Spice it Up: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and having fun! Don’t be afraid to try new things and put your own spin on this recipe. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and create something delicious that you and your loved ones will enjoy.

Variations: Mac and Cheese Your Way

One of the best things about mac and cheese is how versatile it is! You can easily customize this recipe to suit your own taste preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Spicy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: Use a spicy BBQ sauce and add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
• Vegetarian BBQ Mac and Cheese: Skip the chicken and add some grilled vegetables, such as corn, bell peppers, and zucchini.
• Bacon BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: Add crispy bacon to the mac and cheese for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Pulled Pork BBQ Mac and Cheese: Substitute the chicken with pulled pork for a smoky and savory twist.
• Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: Instead of BBQ sauce, use buffalo wing sauce and add a drizzle of ranch dressing.

The possibilities are endless! Let your imagination run wild and create your own unique mac and cheese masterpiece.

Speaking of chicken recipes, have you ever tried CROCKPOT GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN? It’s another fantastic way to enjoy chicken in a creamy, comforting sauce! It’s an easy set it and forget it type recipe and is a total family pleaser, just like this mac and cheese. And if you are in the mood for pasta after this, why not try GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN PASTA? This creamy pasta is simple, delicious and the whole family will love it.

Craving more cheesy goodness with a kick? Check out my CHICKEN ENCHILADAS recipe! These enchiladas are packed with flavor and smothered in a cheesy sauce.

Or maybe you want a hearty, family-style meal like CHICKEN SPAGHETTI? It’s another great way to use cooked chicken and create a comforting dish the whole family will enjoy. If you love garlic, you might love ULTIMATE CREAMY GARLIC CHICKEN, a recipe that is both delicious and easy! You can also try CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN PASTA if you’re looking for an easy pasta dinner.

Storing and Reheating Your Leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (and let’s be honest, that’s a big “if”), here’s how to store and reheat them properly:

• Storing: Let the mac and cheese cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, you have a few options:
  • Microwave: Microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Add a splash of milk if the mac and cheese seems dry.
  • Oven: Reheat the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from drying out.
  • Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Add a splash of milk if the mac and cheese seems dry.

Leftover mac and cheese is just as delicious as the first time around, so don’t let it go to waste!

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Comfort!

Well, there you have it, my friend! The ultimate recipe for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese- Comfort Food Done Right. I hope you’ve enjoyed this culinary adventure as much as I have. Remember, cooking should be fun and relaxing. Don’t be afraid to experiment, get creative, and put your own spin on this recipe. But most importantly, enjoy the process and savor every delicious bite! Happy cooking!