BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving comfort food with a smoky, tangy twist, you simply must try this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. This dish perfectly marries creamy, cheesy pasta with tender chicken coated in rich barbecue sauce, creating a flavor combination that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly satisfying and straightforward to whip up for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, essential ingredients that together build layers of flavor, gooey texture, and vibrant color. Each component plays a crucial role in making the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese truly unforgettable.

• Chicken breast (1 lb): Cooked and shredded, it provides lean protein and soaks up the BBQ sauce beautifully.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to warm the chicken without overpowering the BBQ flavors.
• Elbow macaroni (8 oz): The classic pasta shape that holds onto the luscious cheese sauce perfectly.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Sharp and flavorful, it creates that iconic mac and cheese richness.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Adds a gooey, stretchy texture to the cheese sauce.
• Milk (1 cup): Low-fat milk is recommended to keep the sauce creamy without heaviness.
• BBQ sauce (½ cup): Your favorite brand to bring tangy sweetness and smoky depth to the chicken.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the savory taste and complements the BBQ sauce.
• Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle aromatic warmth to the dish.
• Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Imparts a gentle smoky flavor that reinforces the BBQ vibe.
• Salt and pepper: Adjusted to taste to balance all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley (optional): Chopped and sprinkled over the top for a fresh, colorful finish.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this means it should still have a slight bite to it. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set it aside so it’s ready to be enveloped in creamy, cheesy goodness.

Step 2: Prepare the BBQ Chicken

In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add your cooked, shredded chicken to the pan and let it heat through for about 2 to 3 minutes. This step helps the chicken soak up the pano BBQ sauce.

Step 3: Season and Coat the Chicken

Stir in the BBQ sauce along with the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until all the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the flavorful sauce mixture—this creates that signature BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese taste burst in every bite.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring constantly until the cheese melts into a smooth, silky sauce. This homemade cheese sauce is the backbone of the dish, providing luscious creaminess that clings to every pasta piece.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Cheese Sauce, and BBQ Chicken

Add the cooked pasta directly into the cheese sauce pot and stir to coat the noodles evenly. Then fold in the BBQ chicken mixture, blending everything thoroughly until the pasta is enveloped in creamy, smoky, and cheesy flavors.

Step 6: Final Taste and Adjust

Give the dish a taste test and add more salt or pepper as preferred. This ensures your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is perfectly balanced and ready to wow anyone lucky enough to dig in.

Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Serve your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese piping hot. If you like, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a simple but effective garnish that brightens the dish visually and adds a burst of herbaceous flavor. You could also sprinkle a little extra smoked paprika or even some crispy fried onions for a stunning crunch contrast.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich and filling, so pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans keeps the meal balanced and refreshing. Cornbread or garlic bread make excellent companions as well, soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, bake the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in a casserole dish until the top turns golden and bubbly, adding a crunchy breadcrumb topping if you like. You could also serve it in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch at dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain the creamy texture and keeps the chicken moist when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you want to eat it, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results.

Reheating

Reheat your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk if the sauce feels too thick, stirring well to bring back that creamy texture. This way, the cheesy, smoky goodness tastes just as delightful as when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella work beautifully for this recipe, feel free to experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky provolone to add a unique twist to your dish.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, using pre-cooked shredded chicken saves time and works perfectly. Just make sure the chicken is heated through well in the skillet to fully absorb the BBQ sauce flavors.

Can BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese be made vegetarian?

You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the shredded chicken with BBQ-flavored jackfruit or your preferred plant-based protein, keeping all the other ingredients and steps the same.

What type of BBQ sauce is best to use?

Choose a BBQ sauce that balances sweetness and tanginess to your liking. Whether you prefer spicy, smoky, or classic sweet styles, the sauce will define your dish’s flavor profile.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Definitely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, any small pasta like shells, rotini, or penne will hold the cheese sauce nicely and work well in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and downright delicious about BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that it deserves a regular spot on your dinner table. It’s simple to make, full of big flavor, and guaranteed to satisfy hungry friends and family. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try soon — it might just become your new go-to comfort food classic!

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