Crafting BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, choose your BBQ sauce (store-bought or custom blend). Cook pasta and chicken, then mix in a large bowl. Make cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and shredded cheese. Mix cooked noodles, cheese sauce, BBQ sauce, chicken, milk, and butter. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. Serve in ramekins with parsley or green onions, accompanied by vegetables or salad.
Looking for a delicious and kid-approved meal? Try our easy DIY BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe! This tasty twist on a classic comfort food combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a smoky BBQ sauce. Learn how to make it in just a few simple steps: choose your favorite BBQ sauce, cook the pasta and chicken, prepare a creamy mac and cheese sauce, combine all ingredients, and bake until golden brown. Serve it up and enjoy this mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Mac And Cheese!
- Choose Your Favorite BBQ Sauce
- Cook the Pasta and Chicken
- Prepare the Mac and Cheese Sauce
- Combine and Mix Ingredients
- Bake Until Golden Brown
- Serve and Enjoy!
Choose Your Favorite BBQ Sauce
When it comes to choosing your BBQ sauce for this kid-friendly BBQ chicken mac and cheese recipe, let your taste buds guide you. There’s a world of options out there, from sweet and tangy to smoky and savory. Opt for a store-bought variety if you’re short on time, but if you have an extra few minutes, consider making your own sauce for that authentic, homemade touch.
For a classic BBQ flavor, a blend of ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and spices is hard to beat. If you prefer spicier dishes, add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the mix. And for those who love things sweet and smoky, try combining barbecue sauce with a bit of smoked paprika and a drizzle of honey. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment until you find your perfect match for this delicious BBQ chicken mac and cheese recipe.
Cook the Pasta and Chicken
To start crafting your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. In a separate pan, cook the chicken breast until fully cooked through. Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This step ensures that your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is both delicious and easy for little hands to enjoy.
Toss the cooked pasta with the shredded chicken in a large bowl. This combination forms the base of your mac and cheese, infusing it with protein and flavor from the BBQ chicken.
Prepare the Mac and Cheese Sauce
To start preparing your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe, gather your ingredients and assemble your workstation. Begin by melting butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Slowly add milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and bubbles. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, allowing these flavors to infuse as you cook. Gradually stir in shredded cheese, whisking until it melts completely and combines with the sauce, creating a creamy, indulgent base for your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
Combine and Mix Ingredients
To create a delicious and kid-friendly BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, start by combining the macaroni noodles and cheese sauce in a large pot. Bring the water to a boil and cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the BBQ chicken mixture along with some milk and butter, stirring everything together until well combined. Keep the heat low and allow the mac and cheese to simmer gently, letting the flavors meld together for a mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe that’s sure to please young palates.
Bake Until Golden Brown
To achieve the perfect golden brown crust on your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning; you’ll know it’s ready when the top layer is nicely browned and bubbly. This step is essential as it not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a delicious, crispy texture that contrasts with the creamy macaroni and tender chicken.
The baking process allows the cheese sauce to set, ensuring a thick and rich consistency. The BBQ flavors from the chicken permeate throughout, creating a hearty and comforting dish that kids and adults alike will love. So, while the recipe may seem simple, the result is a mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Serve and Enjoy!
Once your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is nice and bubbly, it’s time to serve up this delicious creation! For a fun twist, consider arranging the mac and cheese in individual ramekins or serving dishes, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley or chopped green onions. This not only looks appealing but also adds a fresh touch to the dish.
You can pair your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with some steamed vegetables or a side salad for a balanced meal. Don’t forget to encourage everyone to dig in and enjoy! The combination of tender macaroni, creamy cheese sauce, juicy chicken, and smoky BBQ flavors will have kids (and adults!) smiling and asking for more.