Prepare a delicious, easy-to-make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, elbow macaroni, BBQ sauce, and a blend of cheeses. Season and cook the chicken, prepare al dente macaroni, create a creamy cheese sauce, then combine everything for a satisfying, one-pan meal perfect for weeknights or any occasion.
“Indulge in a mouthwatering fusion of comfort food with our easy-to-make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe. This one-skillet masterpiece combines tender chicken, al dente macaroni, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce infused with smoky BBQ flavors. Learn how to prepare this hearty dish step-by-step, from gathering the essential ingredients like shredded chicken, pasta, and BBQ sauce, to baking it until the top is crispy and golden. Discover serving suggestions and variations to make it your own.”
- Ingredients and Preparation
- – List of required ingredients with quantities
- – Detailed step-by-step preparation instructions
Ingredients and Preparation
For a mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe, gather your ingredients carefully. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and creamy macaroni cheese for an unforgettable flavor profile. Start by browning shredded chicken in a large skillet, infusing it with BBQ seasoning. Add macaroni noodles, a splash of milk, and a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses for a rich, gooey base. Continue cooking until the pasta is al dente and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
As you prepare, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing. You’ll also need common pantry staples like butter, flour, and breadcrumbs for a crispy topping. This prep is quick and straightforward; simply toss in the vegetables of your choice – bell peppers or broccoli add color and crunch – and let the flavors meld together. The result? A hearty, one-pan BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
– List of required ingredients with quantities
To create this mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, gather the following ingredients:
1. 450g (1 pound) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. 1 small onion, finely chopped
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
5. 1 cup elbow macaroni
6. 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 8 oz)
7. 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
8. 1/4 cup heavy cream
9. Salt and pepper to taste
10. 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
This recipe combines the comfort of mac and cheese with the smoky flavor of BBQ chicken, creating a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
– Detailed step-by-step preparation instructions
To create this mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, follow these detailed steps:
1. Prepare the chicken: Start by seasoning 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite BBQ spice mix. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add some olive oil, then sauté the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the pasta: In the same skillet, cook 1 pound of elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well, then return the macaroni to the hot skillet. Toss with melted butter and a sprinkle of garlic powder and paprika for added flavor.
3. Make the cheese sauce: Whisk together 2 cups of milk, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup blue cheese in a separate bowl until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the macaroni, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine & finish: Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet with the mac and cheese sauce. Toss everything together until well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately while still hot and bubbly. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese!