BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

There is something truly irresistible about combining the creamy comfort of mac and cheese with the smoky, tangy punch of barbecue chicken. This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese blends tender shredded chicken coated in rich BBQ sauce with perfectly gooey cheese sauce and tender pasta for a dish that feels like a big warm hug on a plate. Every bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it an absolute favorite for weeknight dinners, parties, or anytime you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. If you love bold flavors and creamy indulgence paired together, this recipe is going to become your new go-to comfort food classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple ingredients is the first step toward crafting this mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, creaminess, and a lovely balance of smoky and cheesy notes that make this dish sing.

• Chicken breast (1 lb / 450g): Cooked and shredded, this is the star protein soaking up that BBQ flavor.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle richness and keeps the chicken moist when warming it up.
• Elbow macaroni (8 oz / 225g): The classic pasta choice for mac and cheese, holding onto that luscious sauce perfectly.
• Cheddar cheese (2 cups shredded): Sharp and creamy, cheddar brings that iconic mac and cheese flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese (1 cup shredded): Provides extra gooey meltiness that stretches with every forkful.
• Milk (1 cup, low-fat preferred): Creates a velvety cheese sauce base without overwhelming heaviness.
• BBQ sauce (½ cup): Your favorite brand adds smoky sweetness and tang to the chicken mixture.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Elevates savory depth without overpowering the dish.
• Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances overall flavor complexity in the BBQ chicken.
• Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds subtle smoky warmth to complement the BBQ sauce.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to balance and brighten flavors.
• Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous note as a garnish.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. This ensures your pasta will be perfectly tender and ready to soak up the cheesy sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside so it’s ready to mingle with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Warm the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your cooked, shredded chicken. Give it a quick 2 to 3 minutes in the skillet to warm the meat through. This step helps infuse the chicken with a bit of warmth before adding the rich BBQ flavors.

Step 3: Add the BBQ Sauce and Spices

Now it’s time to bring in that smoky BBQ magic. Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper directly into the skillet. Mix thoroughly to coat every shred of chicken with that irresistible sauce mixture.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium heat. Slowly add in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring continually until you end up with a smooth, creamy sauce. The combination of sharp cheddar and melty mozzarella creates the perfect cheesy base for this mac and cheese.

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

Turn off the heat on your cheese sauce and stir in the cooked pasta until it’s completely coated in the luscious cheese. Then fold in the BBQ chicken mixture, stirring gently until everything is evenly mixed and coated in that cheesy, smoky goodness.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Give your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese a quick taste test and add any extra salt or pepper if needed. This step lets you tailor the dish perfectly to your palate before serving it up warm and delicious.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

For a fresh finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. It brightens the dish visually and adds a mild herbaceous flavor that cuts through the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even some classic coleslaw. These sides add contrast and make for a more balanced, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve this dish straight from the skillet for a cozy family-style meal or spoon it into individual oven-safe ramekins and broil the tops until golden and bubbly for a fancy touch. Either way, it’s sure to please everyone at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese left over, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or reheated dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the creamiest texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the mac and cheese seems a little thick, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce back up to its original creamy consistency.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella give a great balance of sharp and melty textures, you can experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or even pepper jack for a little extra kick.

Is it better to use pre-cooked or raw chicken for this recipe?

Using pre-cooked chicken works best for convenience and ensures the chicken remains tender without overcooking. You can use rotisserie chicken or leftovers, just shred it before adding to the dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian twist, simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies like roasted bell peppers, corn, or sautéed mushrooms. You can also add smoky tempeh or plant-based chicken substitutes mixed with BBQ sauce for similar flavor.

How spicy is the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

This recipe is mild by default, focusing more on smoky and tangy BBQ flavors. If you want a bit more heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicy BBQ sauce to suit your taste.

What pasta can I use if I don’t have elbow macaroni?

Any short pasta works well here — think shells, penne, cavatappi, or rotini. They all hold the cheese sauce nicely and provide that satisfying bite.

Final Thoughts

Diving into this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket of cheesy, smoky comfort. It’s a joy to make and share, full of flavors that hit all the right notes without any fuss. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving some solo indulgence, this recipe is sure to brighten your day and become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Print