Oh my goodness, do I have a treat for you today! One of my all-time favorite comfort food recipes is **Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese**. I mean, what’s better than creamy, cheesy goodness mixed with smoky, tangy BBQ chicken? Every time I make it, it takes me back to those sunny backyard parties where laughter flows as freely as the lemonade does, and the smell of the grill fills the air.
To me, this dish is the epitome of cozy comfort. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence, reminding me of summer nights spent with friends around a fire pit. I remember the first time I made it for a potluck; everyone went wild for it, and pretty soon, I became the go-to chef for cheesy pasta dishes at all our gatherings. Such a fun reputation to have!
So, if you’re ready to impress your friends or simply treat yourself to something special, let’s dive into the cheesy, saucy world of BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese!
What’s in Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese?
Pasta: Of course, we need the hearty base for our mac and cheese! I typically use elbow macaroni, but feel free to switch it up with shells or cavatappi for fun shapes and textures.
Chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken is the star of this dish. I often use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience, or you can grill or bake your own for that fresh touch.
BBQ Sauce: This is where the magic happens! Use your favorite BBQ sauce; I love a smoky flavor that has just a touch of sweetness, but go for whatever tickles your taste buds.
Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella gives the mac that irresistible gooeyness. I’m also a big fan of adding some pepper jack for a little kick!
Milk and Cream: To create that luscious cheese sauce, you’ll need a mix of milk and heavy cream. It gives the dish that extra richness.
Butter and Flour: A classic roux begins our cheese sauce, providing that creamy texture which clings to every noodle.
Breadcrumbs: For topping (optional), I recommend panko breadcrumbs. They add a delicious crunch when baked!
Is Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Good for You?
Well, let’s be real — this isn’t your everyday health food, but it does have its own charms.
Chicken: This lean protein will help keep you full and satisfied, and it packs in plenty of nutrients.
Cheese: While cheese can be high in fats and calories, it also contributes calcium and protein. Moderation is key here!
Pasta: Whole grain or chickpea pasta can be a healthier swap, adding fiber and more nutrients to the dish.
So while this Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese may not exactly be a salad, it does have a few redeeming qualities when it comes to real food ingredients. Just make sure to enjoy it in moderation!
Ingredients
– 8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Servings: About 6 hearty portions*
How to Make Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese?
1. **Preheat the oven** to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Cook the pasta** according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. **Make the cheese sauce:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until slightly golden.
4. **Slowly add the milk and cream,** whisking continuously until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
5. **Stir in the cheeses,** adding the cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. **Combine:** In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and cheese sauce together until well combined.
7. **Transfer the mixture** into a greased 9×13 baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top if using.
8. **Bake** for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
9. **Let it cool for a few minutes** before serving, and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!
Variations and Tips for Serving
– Want to kick it up a notch? Add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy punch!
– For a veggie-packed version, throw in spinach or roasted bell peppers mixed with the chicken.
– Serve your mac & cheese with a side salad or some grilled veggies for a perfect balance!
I can’t tell you enough how much I love this dish and how it brings joy to my kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a gathering or just a cozy night in, try it out and let me know how it turns out! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts. Happy cooking!
