BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you are craving a cozy, irresistible comfort food that bursts with smoky, tangy, and cheesy flavors, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is your new best friend in the kitchen. Creamy, cheesy macaroni combined with tender shredded chicken tossed in rich BBQ sauce creates a perfect harmony of sweet and savory that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese elevates the classic mac and cheese into something extraordinary and utterly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese starts with a handful of simple, familiar ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one adds its own flair, whether it’s the gooey cheese for creaminess, the smoky BBQ sauce that amps up the flavor, or the tender chicken lending protein and heartiness.

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded: Using cooked chicken saves time while keeping the dish protein-packed and hearty.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For warming the chicken and adding a subtle fruity flavor.
• 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice: Elbow macaroni’s shape works perfectly to hold the cheese sauce in every bite.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar provides that signature, deliciously tangy cheese flavor.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretchy, gooey texture for that creamy mac and cheese appeal.
• 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred): Creates a smooth base for the cheese sauce without being too heavy.
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand): The star ingredient that brings smoky, tangy, and sweet notes.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic background flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances depth of flavor in the sauce and chicken.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses the dish with a subtle smoky kick that complements the BBQ sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and brighten all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness at the end.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta

Start by boiling your elbow macaroni just until al dente following the package instructions. This ensures the noodles have a little bite and won’t turn mushy once baked into the cheese sauce. Drain and set aside, letting the pasta wait patiently for its cheesy companion.

Step 2: Warm and Coat the Chicken

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet, then add the cooked shredded chicken. Let it warm through for a couple of minutes to bring out tenderness and juiciness. Next, stir in the BBQ sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything well so the chicken is fully coated and infused with those smoky, savory BBQ flavors.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, gently warm your milk over medium heat. Slowly add both shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until you’re left with a beautifully smooth, velvety sauce that holds promise for hearty comfort in every spoonful.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Add your drained pasta to the luscious cheese sauce, stirring to thoroughly coat every piece. This step is where your basic mac and cheese takes the first leap towards indulgence—the noodles swimming in that creamy, cheesy embrace.

Step 5: Fold in the BBQ Chicken

Gently fold the BBQ-coated chicken into the cheesy pasta mixture, mixing carefully to keep everything well distributed without smashing the noodles. Your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is coming together to deliver a perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and meaty flavors.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Give everything a quick taste test. Now’s the moment to add a bit more salt or pepper if needed, ensuring every bite sings with flavor and satisfaction.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Dish out your hot, comforting BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese onto plates or bowls. For a final touch, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley to brighten the flavors and add that lovely green pop.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that livens up the dish visually and flavor-wise, but you can also sprinkle some crispy fried onions or even chopped green onions for an added crunch and bite.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables adds balance and freshness. Coleslaw is a time-tested companion that complements the smoky BBQ flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for that rustic, cozy vibe. Or turn it into a loaded casserole topped with extra cheese and baked until bubbly and golden for a crowd-pleasing centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese keeps beautifully in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness so you can enjoy it again later without the cheese sauce drying out.

Freezing

Freeze leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese by placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk before reheating helps loosen the cheese sauce and keeps everything luscious and creamy, just like when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken to save time?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds flavor and keeps this recipe quick and fuss-free without sacrificing taste.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Choose your favorite BBQ sauce—whether it’s smoky, sweet, or tangy will influence the overall flavor. Experimenting with different brands is a fun way to customize this mac and cheese to your taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can swap the chicken for BBQ jackfruit or smoked tofu to create a delicious vegetarian version that still delivers that smoky BBQ vibe.

Is there a way to make it spicier?

Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when cooking the chicken to bring a little heat that pairs perfectly with the smoky BBQ sauce and cheese.

What cheese can I substitute if I don’t have cheddar or mozzarella?

Sharp white cheddar or Monterey Jack work well as alternatives. For extra creaminess, stirring in some cream cheese is always a hit, too.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is one of those dishes that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and perfect for anytime comfort food cravings strike. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a permanent favorite in your recipe rotation—go ahead and give it a try, your taste buds will thank you!

Print