Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese 30 Minutes Awesome Delicious

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food fusion with our Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump! This irresistible dish combines the rich, creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the bold, smoky flavors of barbecue chicken. Brimming with melted cheese, tender chicken, and a tantalizing blend of seasonings, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a family favorite.

Introduction to Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump

Overview of the Recipe

Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump is a delightful casserole that brings together all the flavors you crave in a single bite. Featuring a base of perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, it’s topped with shredded BBQ chicken, a creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy tortilla chip topping for an irresistible texture contrast.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump is the ultimate comfort food indulgence. It’s a dish that perfectly balances savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a potluck, this one-pan wonder is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

Ingredients Spotlight

The star ingredients in this Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump recipe include tender shredded chicken, bold BBQ sauce, a blend of melty cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and a touch of milk for a creamy texture. The addition of garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper brings depth and balance to the overall flavor profile.

Ingredients Breakdown

Elbow Macaroni: The Foundation of the Dish

The foundation of this delectable dish is the classic elbow macaroni. Cooked to al dente perfection, the macaroni provides the base for the creamy, cheesy goodness to come. You can use any short pasta shape you prefer, but elbow macaroni is a traditional choice that holds the other ingredients beautifully.

Shredded Chicken: Protein-Packed Goodness

The Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump truly shines with the addition of tender, shredded chicken. Whether you opt for store-bought rotisserie chicken or prepare your own, the chicken infuses the dish with hearty protein and a delightful smoky-sweet flavor from the barbecue sauce.

BBQ Sauce: The Flavor Enhancer

The secret to the incredible taste of this dish lies in the use of a flavorful BBQ sauce. The tangy, slightly sweet sauce complements the creamy cheese sauce perfectly, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds.

Cheese: The Creamy Element

No Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump would be complete without a generous helping of melted cheese. The combination of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses ensures a wonderfully gooey, creamy texture that ties all the ingredients together.

Seasonings: Adding Depth to the Flavor

To elevate the overall taste, this recipe includes a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. These simple seasonings enhance the savory notes and create a well-rounded flavor profile that complements the BBQ chicken and cheese beautifully.

Optional Toppings: Crushed Tortilla Chips

For an added layer of texture and crunch, the Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump is often topped with crushed tortilla chips. The crispy chips provide a delightful contrast to the creamy, cheesy base, making each bite a satisfying experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mixing the Ingredients

To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a well-greased baking dish, combine the cooked elbow macaroni, shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Baking the Dish: Cover and Cook

Once the ingredients are mixed, cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake the Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt.

Finishing Touches: Topping and Final Bake

After the initial 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chips are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and irresistible.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the piping hot Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump straight from the oven, allowing the flavors to shine. Consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. This dish is sure to satisfy comfort food cravings and delight your taste buds with every bite.

Tips for the Perfect Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Choosing the Right Cheese

While the recipe calls for a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, you can experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your preferences. Consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan or using a sharper cheddar for an extra bold flavor.

Cooking Tips for the Chicken

For convenience, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken in this recipe. However, if you prefer to cook the chicken yourself, be sure to season it well with your favorite spices before shredding or dicing it.

Customizing Your BBQ Sauce

Feel free to use your favorite brand of BBQ sauce or even make your own homemade version. Adjust the sweetness, tanginess, or spiciness to your liking for a personalized touch.

Variations of the Recipe

While the classic Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump is a crowd-pleaser, you can also experiment with different variations. Try adding diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, incorporating bacon bits for a smoky crunch, or swapping in different pasta shapes to change up the texture.

Nutritional Information

Caloric Breakdown

A serving of this Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump provides approximately 500 calories, with a balanced macronutrient profile of carbohydrates, protein, and fat.

Protein, Carbohydrates, and Fats

Each serving offers around 30 grams of protein, 45 grams of carbohydrates, and 20 grams of fat, making it a satisfying and nutrient-dense meal option.

Healthier Alternatives

For a healthier take on this dish, you can use whole-wheat pasta, opt for low-fat or reduced-fat cheeses, and incorporate more vegetables into the mix. Additionally, you can experiment with using Greek yogurt or a lighter cheese sauce to cut down on the overall fat and calorie content.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Best Ways to Serve

The Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump is best served hot and fresh from the oven. Scoop generous portions onto plates or bowls and enjoy this comforting dish on its own or alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, allow the Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the leftovers for up to 4 days, and when ready to enjoy, reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Reheating Tips

To reheat the Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the desired portion to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is hot and the cheese is melted. Alternatively, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet
• BBQ Rib Mac and Cheese Platter
• Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Mac
• Loaded Pizza Mac Supreme

FAQs About Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

What ingredients do I need to make Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

To make Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, you will typically need the following ingredients: elbow macaroni or your choice of pasta, cooked shredded chicken (preferably BBQ-flavored), BBQ sauce, cheddar cheese (shredded), cream cheese or a cheese sauce for creaminess, milk or heavy cream, and optional toppings like crispy bacon, green onions, and extra cheese for baking.

Can I make Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time. You can assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. To reheat, simply cover it with foil and bake it at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables, mushrooms, or plant-based protein. Use your favorite BBQ sauce that is vegetarian-friendly, and ensure the cheese used is suitable for vegetarians if desired.

How can I make Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese spicier?

To add some heat to your Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, consider incorporating the following: add diced jalapeños or other spicy peppers into the mix, use a spicy BBQ sauce or add hot sauce to taste, or mix in pepper jack cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Conclusion

The Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump is a mouthwatering fusion of comfort food classics that’s sure to impress. With its irresistible combination of tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and a creamy, cheesy base, this one-pan wonder is a surefire way to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this dish is sure to leave everyone wanting more. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the deliciousness of this Loaded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Dump and experience the ultimate comfort food indulgence!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

Print