BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Indulgence 🍗🧀🔥

1. Introduction

Welcome to your next favorite mac and cheese recipe—the BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese, a mouthwatering chicken pasta bake that offers the perfect blend of smoky barbecue flavor and creamy cheese goodness. This dish is ideal for cozy weeknights or weekend gatherings, bringing together tender chicken, gooey cheese, and a hint of smoky tang in every bite. If you love comfort food with a twist, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your culinary arsenal.

2. Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably smoked or grilled)
• 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne works well)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits

3. Step-by-step Guide to Prepare BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If you haven’t already cooked the chicken, you can either shred cooked store-bought rotisserie chicken or prepare your own smoked or grilled chicken breasts. For more flavor, see how to make creamy Boursin chicken pasta or chicken bacon ranch pasta.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the garlic powder and smoked paprika. Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Mix the Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken to the cheese sauce, then incorporate the cooked pasta. Pour in the BBQ sauce and stir thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly. Continue cooking for a couple of minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the BBQ chicken mac & cheese to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture. Serve hot and enjoy the savory, smoky taste.

4. Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce. This dish tastes just as good when reheated!

5. Serving Suggestions

This BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, add a side of garlic bread or cornbread. Want to elevate your dish? Try cracking an egg or adding some cooked bacon on top before serving.

6. FAQs about BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based options like tofu can be used as substitutes. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

This recipe is more carb-heavy due to the pasta but can be adapted to a keto version by replacing pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

From start to finish, expect about 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Simplify cooking your cheese sauce with high-quality nonstick cookware that ensures easy cleanup and even heating.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — A must-have for prepping ingredients quickly and efficiently, especially when chopping chicken or vegetables.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — Perfect for preparing shredded chicken in advance or cooking leftovers slowly for enhanced flavor.
• KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer — Great for mixing large quantities of cheese sauces with ease, making your cooking process smoother.
• King Arthur Baking Ultimate Bread Baker’s Cookbook — For expert tips on perfecting baking and cooking techniques that elevate your comfort food dishes.

8. Related Recipes You Might Love

• Decadent Creamy Boursin Chicken Pasta
• Dreamy Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps

9. Conclusion

There’s no denying that BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is a remarkable twist on traditional comfort food. By combining smoky barbecue flavor with creamy cheese, this chicken pasta bake offers a satisfying and flavorful experience in every bite. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try today and indulge in the ultimate comfort meal you won’t forget!

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