Introduction to BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
When it comes to ultimate comfort food, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese stands out as a delicious, heartwarming dish that marries two favorites into one creamy, savory delight. Imagine digging into a bowl of tender pasta enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, topped with succulent pieces of BBQ chicken—it's food that wraps you in a hug!
Why is this dish a go-to for so many? For starters, it's incredibly satisfying; combining cheesy goodness with flavorful BBQ chicken creates a balance of textures and tastes that can make any meal feel special. Additionally, it's a dish that invites creativity. You can play with different cheeses, spice levels, or even add veggies to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Whether you're cooking for a cozy night in or entertaining friends at a weekend gathering, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is bound to impress. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftovers! Interested in trying a classic recipe? You’re in for a treat! You can find the full recipe below, and make sure to check out some of our tips for ensuring your mac and cheese is the ultimate in comfort food.
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Creating a mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is all about selecting the right ingredients. Follow these lists to gather everything you need for this delicious dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with smoky, tender chicken.
BBQ Chicken
To achieve that rich, BBQ flavor, you'll need:
- 1½ lb chicken breasts, sliced in half
- ½ teaspoon salt (or more, to taste)
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon chipotle powder for a touch of heat
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon oil (to sear the chicken)
- ⅓ cup barbecue sauce (feel free to add more depending on your taste!)
- Optional: 2 tablespoon Frank's RedHot or any buffalo sauce for some extra zing
Mac and Cheese
For the perfect, creamy base, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 oz medium shells (about 2 cups of dry pasta)—gluten-free options work too!
- 4 tablespoon butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free all-purpose flour)
- ½ teaspoon salt and pepper
- ½ teaspoon chipotle powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1½ cups milk (or chicken broth for a savory twist)
- ½ cup water (or chicken broth)
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese
Now that you have everything, let’s dive into creating this savory delight! Want to learn more about the importance of ingredient quality? Check out this article on ingredient selection.
Step-by-step Preparation of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
When you’re craving a cozy, satisfying dish, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hits the spot perfectly. This creamy, dreamy comfort food combines tender BBQ chicken with cheesy pasta for a meal that's both delicious and easy to prepare. Let’s walk through the steps of making this mouthwatering dish together!
Prepare the BBQ Chicken
Start by grabbing 1½ lbs of chicken breasts and slicing them in half for a quicker cook. Season them with salt, pepper, chipotle powder, and garlic powder. In a large skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of oil over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook each side for about 8-10 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes. Trust me, this step helps keep the juices in! Once rested, shred or chop the chicken and mix it with about ⅓ cup of barbecue sauce and a splash of hot sauce if you're feeling bold. Set aside and get ready for the next step!
Cook the Pasta
While your chicken is cooling, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook a 12 oz box of medium-sized pasta shells according to package instructions. Be sure not to overcook them; al dente is the way to go, so they can hold up against the creamy sauce later. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot you used for the pasta, melt 4 tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually add in 1½ cups of milk (or chicken broth for a lighter option), stirring constantly until it simmers. Now it's time for the star of the show: add in your shredded cheeses (¾ cup of cheddar and ½ cup of pepper jack). Keep stirring until everything is melted and smooth, then season with a bit more salt, pepper, chipotle powder, and garlic powder to elevate the flavor.
Combine Everything
Once the cheese sauce is creamy and irresistible, gently fold in the cooked pasta and the shredded BBQ chicken. Make sure everything is well-coated because each bite should be full of flavor. If you have any extra BBQ sauce on hand, feel free to add a bit more for that smoky, sweet undertone.
Bake for That Perfect Finish
For the ultimate finish, transfer everything into a 9×9 casserole dish. Preheat your oven to 400ºF. Toss on a handful of extra cheddar cheese and a drizzle of barbecue sauce for a delightful crust. Bake for about 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
And there you have it – a perfect, homemade BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that’s sure to impress family and friends! Enjoy your meal and watch everyone come back for seconds! For more tips on enhancing your pasta dishes, check out resources like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit!
Variations on BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
When it comes to BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, you can effortlessly switch things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are two delicious twists you might enjoy!
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with Turkey Bacon
For a lighter yet still delicious version, try adding crispy turkey bacon. Simply cook the turkey bacon separately until crispy, then crumb it over the top just before serving. The savory crunch will add lovely texture that complements the creamy mac and cheese beautifully. Plus, you get that smoky flavor that pairs so well with BBQ!
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with Chicken Ham
Another great alternative is to incorporate chicken ham. Swap out the regular chicken for diced chicken ham in this dish. The sweetness of the chicken ham complements the BBQ sauce wonderfully, making each bite a delightful experience. This version is particularly good if you’re looking for something quick and convenient for weeknight dinners.
Regardless of which variation you choose, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses or even throw in some veggies for added nutrition. Want to learn more about using different types of meats in your dishes? Check out this article on exploring alternative proteins.
Cooking Tips and Notes for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
How to Enhance Flavors
To take your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to the next level, consider adding a hint of smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Experimenting with different types of barbecue sauce can also yield deliciously diverse results. For example, a tangy mustard-based sauce pairs beautifully with cheddar!
Tips for Creaminess
A velvety mac and cheese is all about the right cheese blend. Combining sharp cheddar with creamy pepper jack creates a delightful texture. Remember to gradually stir in your cheese off the heat for optimal meltiness. Adding a splash of chicken broth instead of water can also boost creaminess without overwhelming flavors.
For more tips on achieving the perfect macaroni and cheese dish, check out Serious Eats. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
How to Garnish and Present
Elevate your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese by adding a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or green onions for a burst of color and freshness. For added texture, consider topping it with crispy turkey bacon bits or a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce. Serve it in a rustic cast-iron skillet or in individual ramekins for an inviting presentation. Don’t forget to pair it with a side of pickles to cut through the richness!
Best Side Dishes to Pair with It
To complement the hearty flavors of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, try pairing it with:
- Grilled Veggies: Zucchini, bell peppers, and corn add a smoky touch.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw can balance the richness beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up creamy cheesy goodness.
- Fruit Salad: A light, sweet contrast to the savory dish.
Each of these sides brings a unique touch that rounds out the meal perfectly! For more inspiration, check out the Food Network or BBC Good Food for creative side options.
Time Breakdown for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Preparation time
Getting all your ingredients ready takes about 15 minutes. This includes chopping the chicken and measuring out spices and pasta.
Cooking time
You'll spend about 30 minutes cooking the chicken and mac and cheese together. The timing may vary slightly depending on the chicken's thickness.
Total time
In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and comforting BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ready to savor. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a gathering with friends!
For tips on preparing chicken, check out this resource on how to safely cook chicken from the USDA. And for more mac and cheese variations, take a look at this mac and cheese guide that showcases creative twists on the classic dish!
Nutritional Facts for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
When you dive into a creamy bowl of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, it’s good to know what you’re savoring! Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values per serving:
Calories
With approximately 529 calories per serving, this dish is a hearty meal that can keep you satisfied.
Protein
Packed with 40 grams of protein, the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese offers a great post-workout recovery option to fuel your active lifestyle.
Sodium
Keep in mind that there’s 875 mg of sodium in each serving. If you’re watching your salt intake, consider adjusting the amount of seasoning or cheese.
It’s always beneficial to balance indulgences like this with nutritious sides or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious dish guilt-free, knowing what you’re nourishing your body with! For more health-focused tips, check out ChooseMyPlate.gov for great resources on nutrition and balanced eating.
FAQs about BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Can I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese the day before. Just assemble it entirely but avoid baking until you’re ready to serve. Once it’s mixed, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, pop it in the oven and let the magic happen! This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or entertaining guests without the last-minute hassle.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
For the best results, I recommend using a combination of sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese. This blend adds a nice creaminess and a kick of flavor that pairs beautifully with the BBQ chicken. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a twist, but stick to those with good melting properties to ensure that creamy texture we all love.
Is it possible to make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese healthier?
Yes, definitely! There are a few simple swaps you can make to lighten things up. Consider using low-fat cheese or a protein-packed alternative pasta. You could also substitute milk for chicken broth to cut calories while maintaining flavor. Adding veggies like spinach or broccoli would not only increase the nutritional profile but also add a nice crunch!
For some inspiration on healthy alternatives, check out Healthline for more tips on nutritious cooking.
Conclusion on BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
In conclusion, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings people together. With its gooey cheese and smoky barbecue flavors, it's a hit for gatherings or a cozy dinner. Whip it up and enjoy the deliciousness with friends and family!
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Equipment
- large heavy bottomed pan
- Colander
- Casserole dish
- large pot
Ingredients
BBQ Chicken
- 1.5 lb chicken breasts sliced in half
- 0.5 teaspoon salt more as needed
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon chipotle powder
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon oil
- 0.33 cup barbecue sauce more as needed
- 2 tablespoon franks red hot optional
Mac and Cheese
- 12 oz shells medium sized, about 2 cups of dry pasta. Gluten free pasta will also work.
- 4 tablespoon butter
- 0.25 cup all purpose flour or gluten free all purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon salt and pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon chipotle powder
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1.5 cup milk use any milk of choice! Chicken broth will also work.
- 0.5 cup water chicken broth will also work.
- 0.75 cup cheddar shredded
- 0.5 cup pepper jack cheese shredded
Instructions
BBQ Chicken
- If you are cooking your own chicken; grab a large heavy bottomed pan or skillet. Add 1 teaspoon of oil to the pan and place on medium/high heat. Cut the breasts in half for a quicker/even cook.
- Coat the chicken with the chicken seasonings. Add the chicken to the hot pan. Cook on each side for about 8-10 minutes or until it reaches 165º internally. Let the chicken rest for 2 minutes. Shred/chop the chicken, add to a large bowl and mix with bbq & hot sauce. Set aside.
Mac and Cheese
- Start to cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
- Once pasta is done, drain in a colander. Set aside. In the same pot, cook the mac and cheese sauce.
- Melt the butter in the large pot on medium/low heat. Add in flour and whisk well. Next, add in seasonings, milk (or broth) and bring to a simmer. Turn the heat down and add the shredded cheese! Next add noodles and shredded BBQ coated chicken.
- You can serve as is or take it up a notch and add the mix to a 9×9 casserole dish and pop into a preheated oven (400º) to bake. Feel free to add some extra shredded cheddar and bbq sauce drizzle before baking. Bake for about 15 minutes, pull from the oven, serve and enjoy. Optional to garnish with chopped cilantro.
Leave a Reply