Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combines tender shredded chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, and creamy cheesy pasta for a comforting and flavorful slow-cooked meal that’s perfect for busy days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Chicken
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups shredded chicken (cooked, can use rotisserie chicken)
Sauces and Dairy
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 8 oz cream cheese (cubed)
- 1 cup milk
Spices
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Grease the inside of the crockpot with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: In the crockpot, mix together the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until evenly combined.
- Add Cheese: Fold in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese gently, reserving the remaining 0.5 cup for topping later.
- Cook Slowly: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the cream cheese melts evenly and the mixture heats through.
- Top with Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top. Cover again to let the cheese melt fully and become bubbly.
- Serve Warm: Once the cheese topping is melted and bubbly, stir the mac and cheese gently and serve warm. You can garnish with extra barbecue sauce or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
- For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Keywords: Crockpot, BBQ, Chicken, Mac and Cheese, Comfort Food
