Creating BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese involves choosing the right pasta (elbow macaroni or penne) and cheese blend (sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack). Marinate chicken in BBQ sauce, garlic, and herbs, then grill or bake until charred. Prepare a creamy sauce with butter, flour, milk, cheddar, and BBQ sauce. Mix pasta with cheese sauce, add shredded BBQ chicken, sauté onions, garlic, barbecue sauce, cream, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until thickened, stir occasionally until flavors meld. Top with crust or fresh herbs for a satisfying comfort food dish.
Discover the ultimate comfort food fusion with our mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe. This indulgent dish takes the classic mac and cheese to new heights by infusing it with smoky, savory BBQ chicken flavors. Learn how to create a creamy sauce, marinate and cook tender chicken, then combine all ingredients for a hearty meal that’s sure to impress. Serve it up with a twist for an unforgettable culinary experience.
- Choose Your Pasta and Cheese Blend
- Marinate and Cook the BBQ Chicken
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- Combine and Simmer Ingredients
- Serve and Enjoy with a Twist
Choose Your Pasta and Cheese Blend
When crafting your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, selecting the right pasta and cheese blend is key to achieving that perfect creamy texture and rich flavor. Opt for a short-cut pasta shape like elbow macaroni or penne, which hold sauce well and cook evenly. For the cheese, a combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack offers a delightful balance—the tanginess of cheddar complements the smoky BBQ notes, while the creaminess of Monterey Jack ensures a velvety consistency. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different varieties; the goal is to find the duo that satisfies your taste buds and elevates your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe to new heights.
Marinate and Cook the BBQ Chicken
To create a mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, start by marinating your chicken in a blend of tangy BBQ sauce, garlic, and herbs. This step infuses the chicken with flavor, making each bite irresistible. Allow the chicken to soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum tenderness. After marinating, grill or bake the chicken until it’s cooked through and slightly charred on the outside, ensuring juicy, tender meat. Once the chicken is ready, shred it into bite-sized pieces, setting it aside for the next step in your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce
To start crafting your delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, begin by preparing the creamy sauce. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux, which will thicken your sauce. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while continuing to whisk until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently, until it starts to thicken. Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of BBQ sauce until fully melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, creating a rich and savory base for your mac and cheese.
Combine and Simmer Ingredients
To create a mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe, start by combining your pasta of choice with a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Next, toss in shredded BBQ chicken for a smoky, tangy twist. In a separate pan, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant, then add barbecue sauce, heavy cream, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for depth of flavor. Pour this mixture over the macaroni and cheese, allowing everything to simmer together until heated through and the sauce thickens. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Serve and Enjoy with a Twist
Elevate your comfort food experience by serving Creamy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese as a delightful twist on the classic. This mouthwatering dish combines the beloved macaroni and cheese with tender, smoky BBQ chicken, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Top it off with a crunchy, golden crust for an irresistible finish.
For an extra special touch, garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of crushed crispy bacon. Enjoy this BBQ Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe as a hearty main course or even as a satisfying side, perfect for family gatherings or lazy Sunday afternoons. It’s a creative take on comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds!