Name: Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac: 6 Comforting Steps to Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups Elbow Macaroni (Feel free to substitute with gluten-free pasta); 3 cups Shredded Chicken (Rotisserie chicken works best); 1 cup Barbecue Sauce (Homemade BBQ sauce can elevate the flavor); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Opt for Greek yogurt for a healthier choice); 1 cup Milk (Any milk variety including non-dairy options works well); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic can be used as a substitute); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Sauté fresh onions for added texture if desired); to taste Black Pepper; to taste Salt (Omit if your chicken or BBQ sauce is salty); 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Experiment with other cheese types if you like)

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Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac is a delightful dish that combines gooey cheese and smoky chicken for a comforting meal. This recipe brings family and friends together around the table, perfect for cozy nights. The creamy texture and rich flavors of this easy BBQ chicken mac recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into how this dish can become your go-to comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac

This Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly practical. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Effortless preparation with just a few ingredients.
Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Can be customized with different cheeses or BBQ sauces.
Ideal for meal prep, making it easy to store leftovers.
A crowd-pleaser that kids and adults adore alike.
Offers a healthy twist with options for gluten-free pasta.

This dish is a true family-friendly BBQ chicken mac meal that fits seamlessly into the American cuisine category, making it a staple for any dinner table.

Ingredients for Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac

Gather these items:

2 cups Elbow Macaroni (Feel free to substitute with gluten-free pasta)
3 cups Shredded Chicken (Rotisserie chicken works best)
1 cup Barbecue Sauce (Homemade BBQ sauce can elevate the flavor)
8 oz Cream Cheese (Opt for Greek yogurt for a healthier choice)
1 cup Milk (Any milk variety including non-dairy options works well)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic can be used as a substitute)
1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Sauté fresh onions for added texture if desired)
to taste Black Pepper
to taste Salt (Omit if your chicken or BBQ sauce is salty)
2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Experiment with other cheese types if you like)

How to Make Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac Step-by-Step

Step 1: Grease the Crockpot with cooking spray or olive oil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cook elbow macaroni in boiling water for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: In the greased crockpot, combine cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
Step 4: Gently fold in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, reserving 0.5 cup for topping.
Step 5: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top about 15 minutes before serving.
Step 7: Serve warm, drizzled with extra BBQ sauce or garnished with fresh herbs.

Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac: 6 Comforting Steps to Delight - Crockpot Bbq Chicken Mac - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac

Keep these in mind:

Use rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor and convenience.
Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors to find your favorite.
For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Mix in some vegetables like corn or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Always check for doneness before serving, especially with pasta.

Best Ways to Serve Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac

This dish can be served in various delightful ways:

Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce for those who love more flavor.
Pair with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Top with crispy fried onions for an added crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac

For leftovers, store the Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac

What’s the secret to perfect Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac?

The secret lies in cooking the macaroni al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients. This ensures it maintains a good texture and doesn’t become mushy during the slow cooking process.

Can I make Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just warm it up in the crockpot or microwave when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to grease your crockpot well and monitor the cooking time. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even heating.

Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac: 6 Comforting Steps to Delight - Crockpot Bbq Chicken Mac - additional detail

Variations of Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac You Can Try

Here are some creative twists to consider:

Substitute chicken with shredded beef for a different flavor profile.
Add a spicy BBQ sauce for a spicy BBQ chicken mac and cheese.
Mix in vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a healthy boost.
Try using different types of cheese, like pepper jack or gouda, for unique flavors.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Tuscan Scallops Recipe or Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit One Pan Cheesy Ranch for more inspiration.