Introduction
This one-pot BBQ Chicken Chili Mac is a delicious twist on classic comfort food. With flavors of smoky barbecue sauce, tender chicken, hearty beans, and macaroni, this dish is perfect for a cozy family meal. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
450 grams boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
1 onion, chopped (150 grams)
1 red bell pepper, diced (120 grams)
2 cloves garlic, minced (10 grams)
400 grams canned diced tomatoes
300 grams canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
250 grams elbow macaroni
700 ml chicken broth
200 ml barbecue sauce
2 teaspoons chili powder (10 grams)
1 teaspoon ground cumin (5 grams)
Salt and pepper to taste
100 grams shredded cheddar cheese
20 grams fresh cilantro, chopped
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Browning the Chicken
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the cubed chicken. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned on all sides and just cooked through. You’ll want to see a lovely golden color developing to lock in those savory flavors.
Step 2: Sautéing Vegetables
Next, introduce the chopped onion, diced red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent, filling the kitchen with fragrant aromas that entice your senses.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, drained and rinsed kidney beans, elbow macaroni, chicken broth, barbecue sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir, allowing the rich flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Simmering the Dish
Bring the mixture to a robust boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The macaroni should become al dente, absorbing all those irresistible flavors while the dish develops a lovely consistency.
Step 5: Melting the Cheese
Once the macaroni reaches the perfect texture, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly throughout the dish, creating a creamy, cheesy embrace for all the other delicious ingredients.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Before serving, garnish your One-Pot BBQ Chicken Chili Mac with freshly chopped cilantro. The vibrant green not only adds a burst of color but also a fresh, aromatic note that brightens the dish.
Notes
Tip for Meal Prep
Feel free to chop your vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. This will save you precious minutes during the weeknight rush.
Spice it Up
Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your heat preference. For extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Storage Recommendations
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen it up.
Customization Ideas
This dish is versatile! You can swap out the kidney beans for black beans or use ground turkey in place of chicken for a different protein option. Add frozen corn or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture.
Cook techniques
Searing
Searing the chicken pieces in olive oil enhances their flavor and texture, creating a delicious browned surface that locks in moisture.
Sautéing
Sautéing the onions, bell peppers, and garlic adds depth of flavor to the dish. Cooking them until they are soft and translucent allows their natural sweetness to develop.
Simmering
Simmering the mixture after adding the broth and pasta helps to meld the flavors together while cooking the macaroni to the perfect al dente consistency.
Combining
Stirring in the shredded cheddar cheese at the end ensures it melts evenly, creating a creamy and rich texture throughout the chili mac.
Garnishing
Garnishing with fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color, enhancing the overall presentation and offering a flavor contrast to the rich chili mac.
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
Yes, rotisserie chicken would be a great time-saver. Just add it towards the end of cooking to heat it through.
What can I substitute for elbow macaroni?
You can use any small pasta shape such as penne, shells, or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the chicken and use additional beans or lentils for protein. Ensure the broth and barbecue sauce are vegetarian-friendly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to kick up the heat according to your preference.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to cook and combine them just before serving for optimal texture.
Conclusion
The One-Pot BBQ Chicken Chili Mac is a perfect comfort food that combines the smoky flavors of barbecue with tender chicken and hearty macaroni. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is not only delicious but also a practical choice for busy weeknights. Its blend of spices and textures ensures that every bite is satisfying, making it a hit for both family dinners and gatherings.
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