Create a delicious and satisfying BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with this simple recipe. Combine pasta, chicken breasts, cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce, milk, butter, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and red chili flakes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), marinate and bake chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Shred the cooked chicken, cook pasta al dente, mix them together with BBQ sauce, and serve for a cozy night in.
- Ingredients and Preparation
- – List of required ingredients with quantities
- – Detailed step-by-step preparation instructions
- Cooking the BBQ Chicken
- – Methods to marinate and cook the chicken for maximum flavor
Ingredients and Preparation
To create a hearty and comforting BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe, gather the following ingredients: pasta of your choice, chicken breasts or thighs, BBQ sauce, butter, flour, milk, sharp cheddar cheese (grated), salt, and pepper.
Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add flour, whisking constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually pour in milk while continuing to whisk until smooth. Slowly stir in BBQ sauce, grated cheese, salt, and pepper, letting the mixture come together over low heat until creamy and bubbly. Once your chicken is cooked and shredded, combine it with the macaroni and cheese before serving.
– List of required ingredients with quantities
Ingredients for a Delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese:
To create this mouthwatering BBQ chicken mac and cheese, gather the following ingredients. Adjust quantities according to your appetite and desired consistency. You’ll need 2 cups of elbow pasta, 2 boneless and skinless chicken breasts, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, 1/4 cup milk, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 small onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), and salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget a pinch of red chili flakes for an extra kick!
The key to a perfect BBQ chicken mac and cheese lies in the balance of creamy sauce, tender pasta, and savory chicken. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before cooking for the best results. This simple yet satisfying dish is ideal for cozy nights in, offering a comforting blend of classic flavors with a smoky twist from the BBQ sauce.
– Detailed step-by-step preparation instructions
Cooking the BBQ Chicken
To cook the perfect BBQ chicken for your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, toss cubed chicken breasts with a generous coating of BBQ sauce. Ensure every piece is evenly covered. Place the chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until thoroughly cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once baked, let it rest for a few minutes before shredding the chicken using two forks. This step is crucial to achieving a tender, flavorful BBQ chicken that will melt in your mouth when combined with the creamy mac and cheese.
While the chicken cooks, prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, keeping it warm on low heat. After shredding the chicken, mix it well with the cooked pasta, adding a splash of BBQ sauce if needed for extra flavor.
– Methods to marinate and cook the chicken for maximum flavor
To achieve mouthwatering flavors in your BBQ chicken mac and cheese recipe, proper marination and cooking techniques are key. Start by mixing your favorite BBQ sauce with a generous amount of olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you enjoy. Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly, ensuring the marinade adheres evenly. Allow the chicken to sit for at least 30 minutes or, for maximum infusion of flavors, refrigerate it for up to 4 hours. This step allows the spices to penetrate the meat, creating a richer taste profile.
When cooking, preheat your oven to a temperature suitable for baking (typically around 375°F/190°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast until internal temperatures reach 165°F/74°C. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.