The Complete Guide to Mastering BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Storing Leftovers:

Cool leftovers completely before placing them in an airtight container. Proper storage ensures they maintain flavor and texture when reheating.

Serving:

Allow the dish to cool briefly before serving. This helps the cheese sauce set slightly, making it easier to scoop and serve.

Garnishing:

After baking, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a vibrant finish. This not only improves visual appeal but also adds a hint of freshness to the dish.

Preparing the Topping:

Mix panko with olive oil and seasonings before sprinkling it over the mac and cheese. This topping adds a crunchy layer that enhances the overall dining experience.

Baking the Dish:

Spread the combined mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Baking allows the top to crisp while keeping the inside creamy, creating a delightful contrast in texture.

Combining Ingredients:

Mix the BBQ chicken with the cheese sauce and pasta in a large bowl. This step ensures every bite is infused with the sweet and savory flavors of the barbecue sauce.

Creating the Cheese Sauce:

Gradually add milk to the roux while whisking continuously until thickened. Incorporating cheese into this mixture allows for a silky smooth sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

Making the Roux:

Melt butter and whisk in flour over medium heat to create a roux. This thickens the cheese sauce and adds a rich flavor base, crucial for achieving the desired creamy texture.

Cooking Pasta:

Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, following package instructions. This ensures that the pasta retains its shape and doesn’t become mushy when baked.

Pro Chef Secrets to Perfect BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

For added flavor, mix Parmesan cheese into the panko breadcrumb topping.

Substitute shredded chicken with sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers for a vegetarian version.

Pair this dish with a simple green salad or coleslaw to balance the richness of the mac and cheese.

Adding crispy fried onions or bacon bits on top can enhance the texture and flavor.

Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese – Creamy, Cheesy, and Flavor-Packed

Name: Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese – Creamy, Cheesy, and Flavor-Packed
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Pasta:; 1 pound elbow macaroni; 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese; For Chicken:; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice of flavor); For Topping:; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Transform your dinner table with this Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese, a delightful fusion of creamy macaroni, tender chicken, and tangy barbecue sauce. Imagine the rich, cheesy goodness of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, while succulent shredded chicken adds a savory depth. Balanced by the sweet and smoky notes of your favorite BBQ sauce, this dish brings a comforting warmth that’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch, while the gooey cheese ensures every bite is a mouthwatering experience. This is not just a meal; it’s a taste of nostalgia and comfort, guaranteed to bring smiles to your table. Perfect for game nights, casual family dinners, or even a fun barbecue party, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. With its combination of flavors and textures, it's a meal that warms your heart and fills your belly.

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Cook Time

30 Minutes

Total Time

50 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

For Pasta:

1 pound elbow macaroni

4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For Chicken:

2 cups cooked shredded chicken

1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice of flavor)

For Topping:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce. Mix well to ensure all chicken is evenly coated.

Step 3: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 4: In a large pot over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter and whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 5: Gradually add 4 cups of milk to the roux, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, around 5-7 minutes.

Step 6: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until fully melted and creamy.

Step 7: Fold the cooked macaroni and BBQ chicken mixture into the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is well combined.

Step 8: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Step 9: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then sprinkle over the mac and cheese.

Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Step 11: Remove from oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Step 12: Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese warm and share it with loved ones for a memorable meal.

Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese – Creamy, Cheesy, and Flavor-Packed

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Complete Guide to Mastering BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese – Creamy, Cheesy, and Flavor-Packed

Ingredients

Instructions