why make this recipe
Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a perfect dish for busy days. It combines comfort food favorites—macaroni and cheese—with the delicious taste of barbecue chicken. This meal is not only easy to make, but it also uses the slow cooker, allowing flavors to meld while you take care of other things. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
how to make Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Making Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is simple and straightforward. You’ll need a few basic ingredients and just a little bit of time to put everything together. Let’s break it down step by step.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups shredded chicken (cooked, can use rotisserie chicken)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 8 oz cream cheese (cubed)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the Crockpot by greasing the inside with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In the crockpot, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until well combined.
- Gently fold in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, reserving 0.5 cup for topping.
- Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until heated through and cream cheese has melted.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top and cover to allow it to melt.
- Once melted and bubbly, stir and serve warm, garnished with additional barbecue sauce or fresh herbs if desired.
how to serve Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is best served warm. You can dish it out into bowls and add extra barbecue sauce on top for an added kick. For a nice touch, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some breadsticks for a complete meal.
how to store Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of milk to help restore its creamy texture.
tips to make Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
- For a smokier flavor, try using smoked barbecue sauce.
- If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add some crushed red pepper or hot sauce.
- Experiment with different cheeses. You can mix in mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a fun twist.
- Make sure not to overcook the macaroni before adding it to the crockpot, as it will continue cooking during the slow cooking process.
variation
You can make this recipe vegetarian by skipping the chicken and adding more veggies like bell peppers, corn, or black beans. Also, consider using a plant-based cream cheese and cheese to cater to vegan diets.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add it to the crockpot and ensure it cooks thoroughly before serving.
Can I use whole grain macaroni?
Absolutely! Whole grain macaroni can be a healthier option and works perfectly in this recipe.
How do I know when it’s done?
The dish is done when the cheese is melted, creamy, and all ingredients are heated through, usually after 2 to 3 hours on low. Stir occasionally to check the consistency.
