Ah, the Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese! Let me tell you, this dish holds a special place in my heart. I first discovered it during a summer cookout at my friend’s house, where the grill was going strong, and the aroma of barbecue sauce wafted through the air. One bite of cheesy, creamy macaroni combined with smoky BBQ chicken, and I was hooked! Since then, it’s been a staple on my dinner table, especially for potlucks and family gatherings.
What makes this recipe unique is the perfect marriage of flavors—rich, cheesy goodness meets the sweet and tangy notes of BBQ sauce. It’s like a big, warm hug on a plate. Plus, it’s so easy to make! I can whip it up on a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, and it always gets rave reviews. So let’s dive into how we can whip up this crowd-pleaser!
What’s in Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese?
Macaroni Pasta: The best choice here is elbow macaroni, as it’s the classic pasta for mac and cheese. Plus, the small shape allows the cheese sauce to cling on, giving you that gooey, cheesy texture we all crave.
Cooked Chicken: I love using shredded rotisserie chicken for this recipe. It’s convenient and packed with flavor, plus it saves time! You can, of course, grill or pan-cook your chicken if you’re feeling ambitious.
BBQ Sauce: The star of the show! Choose your favorite BBQ sauce; whether you prefer tangy, sweet, or smoky, it will add a delicious twist to the dish. My go-to is a homemade bourbon BBQ sauce that I whip up, but any store-bought variety will do.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides a fantastic flavor, while the creamy texture helps bind everything together. I usually mix in some mild cheddar for a balanced taste, but feel free to experiment!
Milk: Whole milk is the best choice here— it makes the cheese sauce extra creamy. You can also use 2% milk if that’s what you’ve got on hand.
Butter and Flour: These ingredients come together to create a roux, which thickens the cheese sauce to perfection. I typically use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness.
Breadcrumbs: For that irresistible crunchy topping, I recommend using panko breadcrumbs. They get nice and crispy when baked and add a lovely contrast to the creamy mac.
Is Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Good for You?
Now, let’s chat a bit about health, shall we? While this dish is undeniably indulgent, it does have some redeeming qualities.
Macaroni Pasta: It’s a good source of carbohydrates, giving you that energy kick you need.
Cooked Chicken: This adds protein to the dish, making it more filling. Plus, it’s a leaner choice compared to other meats, like sausage or bacon.
Cheddar Cheese: Rich in calcium and protein, cheese can be part of a balanced diet. Just remember, moderation is key!
On the flip side, it is worth noting that this dish is higher in calories and fat due to the cheese and barbecue sauce. If you’re looking to lighten it up a bit, consider using low-fat cheese or adding some veggies like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients! Balance is everything, right?
Ingredients
– 2 cups elbow macaroni (serves about 6)
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great!)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup whole milk
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
How to Make Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me; you want it nice and toasty when it comes time to bake!
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute.
4. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens—about 3 to 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the cheese, and continue mixing until it’s completely melted and creamy.
6. Add the cooked chicken and BBQ sauce to the cheese sauce, mixing until everything is well combined.
7. Toss the cooked macaroni into the cheesy mixture, ensuring every noodle is coated.
8. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top evenly with panko breadcrumbs.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
10. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—you don’t want to burn your tongue on that delicious cheesy goodness!
Tips for a BBQ Feast!
– For an extra layer of flavor, mix in some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick!
– Instead of breadcrumbs, you can also crush up some potato chips for that crunch!
– Pair it with a fresh garden salad for some lightness; the crunch of the veggies compliments the creamy mac perfectly.
– If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), this dish reheats well in the microwave—just add a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
I hope you give this Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese a try. It’s one of those go-to comfort foods that never fails to impress! If you make it, I’d absolutely love to hear your thoughts and any fun variations you tried. Happy cooking!
