BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: The name alone conjures up images of creamy, cheesy goodness intertwined with tender, smoky chicken and a tangy BBQ twist. This isn’t your grandmother’s mac and cheese; this is a culinary masterpiece that elevates the classic comfort food to new heights. I’ve been perfecting this recipe for years, and I’m thrilled to finally share it with you.

While mac and cheese itself boasts a rich history, tracing back centuries to various forms of cheese-based pasta dishes, this particular iteration is a testament to modern culinary fusion. It beautifully blends the comforting familiarity of classic mac and cheese with the bold, smoky flavors of barbecue, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and exciting. The marriage of these two beloved food groups is nothing short of genius!

What makes BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese so irresistible? It’s the perfect harmony of textures and tastes. The creamy, velvety cheese sauce coats each perfectly cooked pasta noodle, while the succulent BBQ chicken adds a delightful smoky counterpoint. The slight sweetness of the BBQ sauce balances the richness of the cheese, creating a flavor profile that’s both satisfying and surprisingly nuanced. It’s a dish that’s incredibly comforting, perfect for a cozy night in, yet sophisticated enough to impress guests. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a show-stopping addition to your next gathering.

So, are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure and create your own batch of this incredible BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese? Let’s get started!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional, for a richer flavor)
• 1 cup cooked and shredded BBQ chicken (about 2-3 chicken breasts)
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind!)
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Preparing the Macaroni

1. First, I always start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything is ready to go when the mac and cheese is ready for baking.
2. Next, I cook the macaroni according to the package directions. I usually aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Make sure to drain it well; we don’t want any extra water in our creamy sauce!
3. Once drained, I set the cooked macaroni aside. I usually give it a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from getting gummy.

Making the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, I melt the 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. I make sure it’s completely melted before moving on to the next step.
2. Then, I whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste (this is called a roux). I whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming. This step is crucial for a smooth and creamy sauce.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. I continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and thickened. This takes a few minutes and requires patience, but it’s worth it!
4. Once the sauce has thickened, I reduce the heat to low and stir in the salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). I taste the sauce at this point and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
5. Now comes the fun part! I stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Gruyere cheeses (if using), one at a time, until each is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. I usually start with the cheddar, then the Monterey Jack, and finally the Gruyere for a nice layered flavor.

Combining and Baking

1. Once the cheese is melted and the sauce is perfectly creamy, I gently fold in the cooked macaroni and the shredded BBQ chicken. I try not to overmix, as I want to keep the macaroni intact and prevent it from breaking down.
2. I then stir in the BBQ sauce, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This adds a delicious smoky sweetness to the mac and cheese.
3. I pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. I make sure to spread it evenly to ensure even cooking.
4. In a small bowl, I combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. I sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. This adds a nice crispy topping.
5. This is where the magic happens! I bake the mac and cheese in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. I keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
6. Once it’s baked, I let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
7. Finally, I garnish with chopped green onions before serving. This adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish.

Tips and Variations

• For a spicier mac and cheese, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Some other great options include Gouda, Fontina, or even a blend of your favorites.
• If you don’t have Gruyere, don’t worry! The mac and cheese will still be delicious without it.
• For a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven.
• You can also make this dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving. Just assemble it and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe! I truly believe this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a kick. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness, smoky BBQ flavor, and tender, juicy chicken. The combination of textures – the smooth mac and cheese, the crispy chicken, and the slightly crunchy breadcrumb topping – is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that satisfies on so many levels, offering a delightful balance of savory and sweet, rich and comforting.

What makes this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe stand out is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less BBQ sauce, or even experimenting with different types of hot sauce. Feel free to get creative with the cheese blend; a sharp cheddar and Gruyere combination would be fantastic, or you could even add some pepper jack for an extra zing! And don’t be afraid to experiment with the chicken – leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly, saving you time and effort.

Serving Suggestions:

This decadent dish is perfect for a cozy night in, a casual get-together with friends, or even a family dinner. I love serving it alongside a simple side salad to add some freshness and balance to the richness of the mac and cheese. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is my personal favorite, but a coleslaw or even some roasted vegetables would also complement the flavors beautifully. For a truly indulgent meal, consider serving it with some garlic bread or cornbread – the perfect vehicles for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

Variations to Explore:

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Want to make it a complete meal? Add some steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthier twist. Feeling adventurous? Try swapping the BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile, such as buffalo sauce for a spicy kick, or a creamy chipotle sauce for a smoky, slightly spicy alternative. You could even add some bacon or chorizo for extra richness and flavor. The possibilities are truly endless!

For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese alternative. You could also bake it in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation, perfect for a dinner party. And if you’re short on time, you can skip the breadcrumb topping altogether – the mac and cheese is delicious on its own!

Don’t Forget to Share!

I genuinely hope you give this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I’m confident it will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and feedback on social media using the hashtag #BBQChickenMacAndCheese. I can’t wait to see your delicious creations and hear how you customized this recipe to your liking. Happy cooking!

Remember, cooking should be fun and creative! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and the delicious results. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a truly unforgettable meal. You won’t regret it!