BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese – CookTune

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight: The Ultimate Cheesy & Juicy Comfort Food 🍗🧀🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re a fan of cheesy, savory dishes packed with flavor, then BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is exactly what you need. This irresistible recipe combines tender, smoky bbq chicken with creamy macaroni, creating a cheesy chicken pasta that will satisfy all your comfort food cravings. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress. Ready to learn how to make this delicious cheesy chicken pasta? Let’s get started!

2. Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

• 2 cups cooked shredded bbq chicken
• 8 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup milk or heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Preparation of the Pasta

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheesy Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk or heavy cream until smooth and thickened. Add the shredded cheeses and stir until melted and creamy. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Combine BBQ Chicken and Pasta

Stir in the shredded bbq chicken and BBQ sauce into the cheesy sauce. Mix well to coat evenly.

Mix Pasta with Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and gently stir until fully coated. Let everything simmer together for a couple of minutes to ensure flavors meld beautifully.

Serving Your Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Serve the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired. For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of extra cheese or a drizzle of BBQ sauce on top.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cheese may change upon thawing.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Cheesiest Chicken Pasta

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is versatile and pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. For an elevated meal, serve alongside garlic bread or cornbread to complement the smoky flavors. Hungry for more delicious pasta ideas? Check out cheeseburger orzo or creamy one-pan skillet meals.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of cooked bbq chicken?

Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a quick, convenient alternative that saves time. Simply shred and add it to the sauce as you would with cooked bbq chicken.

What cheese is best for this recipe?

Cheddar and mozzarella are classic options that melt beautifully. For extra flavor, consider adding pepper Jack or Monterey Jack cheese.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, you can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour to make the sauce.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

From start to finish, this cheesy chicken pasta recipe takes approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Achieve perfectly cooked pasta and sauces with ease using this high-quality cookware set. It ensures even heating and easy cleanup.
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 — For quick, crispy bbq chicken, this air fryer makes cooking juicy, crispy chicken effortlessly.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Chop the chicken or prepare fresh vegetables to pair with your dish easily fast.

8. Related Recipes You Might Like

• Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
• Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Bowl
• Creamy Texas Roadhouse Chicken Skillet

9. Conclusion

There’s no denying that BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a crowd-pleasing, cheesy chicken pasta dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Perfect for weeknights or indulgent weekends, this dish blends smoky bbq with cheesy goodness to create a memorable meal. So gather your ingredients, gear up with your favorite kitchen tools, and enjoy cooking this delicious comfort food today!

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