Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Chili Mac
Try this Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Chili Mac recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Chili Mac recipe, or contribute your own.
- salt to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 red pepper diced
- 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken (see post for notes on unco
- 1 540 ml (19oz) can black or kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 3 cups dry macaroni (i use whole wheat or high fiber whit
- Carbohydrate 14.5597054179251 g
- Cholesterol 352.866666666667 mg
- Fat 76.4011856654272 g
- Fiber 0.43201381008402 g
- Protein 87.4664405993227 g
- Saturated Fat 26.9317972305662 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (499g)
- Sodium 1401.30696859114 mg
- Sugar 14.1276916078411 g
- Trans Fat 6.03664693460531 g
- Calories 1114 calories
Step-by-step
- Add chicken, pepper, onion, beans, chili powder, tomatoes, garlic, barbecue sauce, ketchup and chicken broth to slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours (because I used cooked chicken, the cooking time is pretty flexible -- if using raw chicken, you'll want to cook at least 6-8 hours on low).
- Half an hour before you wish to serve, set slow cooker to high and stir in salt to taste and dry pasta.
- After 20-25 minutes, check to see that your pasta is cooked (if not, give it a little more time. I found that 25 minutes was perfect).
- Stir in cheese and serve.
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Chili Mac: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal for my family can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, work deadlines, and after-school activities, the last thing I want to do is spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That's why I've become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes – they're a lifesaver! This Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Chili Mac is a perfect example. It's hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, even on the busiest of weekdays.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You simply toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, you have a warm, comforting meal waiting for you. No more frantic last-minute cooking or takeout nights! The BBQ sauce adds a smoky sweetness that perfectly complements the savory chili and the creamy cheddar cheese. My kids adore this dish, and I find myself making it at least once a month.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking. For example, you can swap out the black beans for kidney beans or pinto beans. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, or add some diced jalapeños for a spicier kick. The possibilities are endless! I've even been known to add a handful of chopped cooked bacon for extra richness, and it always turns out wonderfully.
One of the biggest time-savers is using pre-cooked chicken. This significantly reduces the cooking time. However, if you prefer to use raw chicken, simply adjust the cooking time accordingly. Remember that raw chicken requires a longer cooking time in the slow cooker to ensure it's cooked through completely.
The chili powder adds a wonderful depth of flavor, creating a balance that both kids and adults will enjoy. The macaroni absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully, creating a tender and delicious texture. I often use whole wheat macaroni for a slightly healthier twist, but regular macaroni works perfectly fine as well.
This recipe has become a staple in our home, and I'm always excited to share it with others. It's a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or even a weekend gathering. I encourage you to give it a try – I guarantee it will become one of your family's favorites.
Tips for Success:
- Use pre-cooked chicken: This significantly reduces the cooking time.
- Adjust the spices to your liking: Add more or less chili powder depending on your spice preference.
- Experiment with different cheeses: Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend would work well.
- Add other vegetables: Corn, bell peppers, or zucchini would be delicious additions.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Check for doneness at the recommended time and adjust accordingly.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a lighter meal.
- Top with sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
This Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Chili Mac is more than just a recipe; it's a solution to the age-old dilemma of what to make for dinner on a busy weeknight. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined with a little bit of planning, resulting in a truly satisfying and delicious meal. So, go ahead, give it a try and let me know what you think!
