Why Make This Recipe
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious dish that combines two favorites – creamy mac and cheese and flavorful BBQ chicken. It’s an easy dinner option that will satisfy the whole family. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal, potluck, or gathering with friends. Plus, it’s simple enough to prepare that even beginner cooks can make it.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 Parsley, fresh
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 8 oz Elbow macaroni or pasta
- 1/2 tsp Paprika, smoked
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Milk
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add shredded chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in BBQ sauce and mix until the chicken is well-coated.
- Add the cooked macaroni, milk, and both cheeses to the skillet; stir until cheeses are melted and everything is well combined.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hot right after cooking. You can garnish each serving with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
To store leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to help restore the creamy texture.
Tips to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking and shredding the chicken.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on your taste preference.
- For extra flavor, try adding some diced onions or bell peppers while cooking the chicken.
Variation
You can add veggies like broccoli or spinach to make this dish even healthier. Just cook the vegetables until tender before mixing them in with the cheese and pasta.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you like! Pepper jack or gouda would be great options for a different flavor.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the mixing stage and store it in the fridge. Just bake it or heat it up on the stove when you’re ready to serve.
3. Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe is not spicy, but if you want some heat, you can add hot sauce or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
