Get ready to revolutionize your mac and cheese game with the most mouthwatering, flavor-packed dish you've ever tasted! 🔥 Imagine the ultimate comfort food meets BBQ magic - our BBQ Chicken Mac n Cheese Skillet is about to become your new obsession. This isn't just another boring pasta recipe; it's a culinary adventure that combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of classic mac and cheese with the smoky, tangy kick of BBQ chicken. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you're craving something absolutely irresistible, this one-skillet wonder will have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Macaroni pasta
- Cooked chicken, shredded
- BBQ sauce
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Milk
- Butter
- Breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure a 10-12 inch cast iron skillet or oven-safe baking dish is ready.
- Cook macaroni pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
- Pour BBQ sauce over the chicken, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Add cooked macaroni to the skillet with the BBQ chicken. Stir to combine and distribute ingredients evenly.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually add milk and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese mixture.
- Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until breadcrumbs are golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional BBQ sauce or chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce's smoothness.
- Pasta Perfection: Cook your macaroni just until al dente. Overcooking will result in mushy mac and cheese, especially since it will continue to cook in the oven.
- BBQ Sauce Matters: Select a high-quality BBQ sauce that complements the chicken. A balanced sweet and tangy sauce works best.
- Cast Iron is King: If possible, use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution and a beautiful golden crust.
- Breadcrumb Tip: For extra crunch, mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top.
- Don't Skimp on Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as you go. The right seasoning can elevate the entire dish.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the skillet rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and make serving easier.
- Customize Your Creation: Feel free to add diced jalapeños, green onions, or extra BBQ sauce for personal flair!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
