BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you love comfort food with a smoky, tangy twist, you’re going to adore this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that instantly feels like a warm hug on a plate—cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavorful BBQ chicken. I’ve found it’s perfect for casual dinners with family or when you want something satisfying yet easy to whip up.

What makes this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe stand out is the way the BBQ sauce blends seamlessly into the cheese sauce, giving the classic mac and cheese a lively boost without overpowering it. Plus, it’s a fantastic recipe to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, which saves time without sacrificing taste. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be making it again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe lies in the balance of ingredients that deliver gooey cheese, smoky chicken, and creamy pasta all baked into one bowl of yum. Choosing quality BBQ sauce and a good sharp cheddar makes a big difference, so don’t be shy about picking your favorites!

• Chicken breast: Using cooked, shredded chicken is super convenient—leftovers or rotisserie chicken work beautifully here.
• Olive oil: Just a little to warm up the chicken and help those spices stick.
• Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape for mac and cheese; it holds sauce well, but you can swap for your favorite pasta.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the sauce a rich, tangy bite—don’t skimp on this!
• Mozzarella cheese: Adds that melty stretch and creamy texture we all love.
• Milk: Low-fat works fine, but whole milk makes the sauce extra silky.
• BBQ sauce: Your favorite brand is key—pick one you enjoy eating on its own since it’s a star here.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle earthiness to round out flavors.
• Onion powder: Enhances the savory depth without overpowering.
• Smoked paprika: This little spice brings a smoky warmth that pairs perfectly with BBQ sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Season carefully; it brings all the ingredients together beautifully.
• Fresh parsley: Optional but highly recommended for a fresh, vibrant garnish.

Variations

I love to mix things up depending on my mood or what’s in the fridge, and this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is so versatile that personalizing it is a breeze. Feel free to get creative and make it truly your own.

• Extra smoky: I’ve tossed in some chopped smoked sausage or added a dash of chipotle powder for an extra kick.
• Veggie boost: Stir in some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or corn for texture and color.
• Healthier swaps: Use whole wheat pasta or cauliflower pasta and low-fat cheese options for a lighter dish.
• Spicier version: Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños—my friends love this fiery twist!
• Bacon lover’s edit: Crispy bacon bits folded in give a wonderful crunch and smoky richness.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Just Right

Start by boiling your macaroni according to the package directions—don’t overcook it! Al dente is best because the pasta will continue to soften a little when you mix in the cheese and chicken. Once done, drain it well and set it aside; letting it sit moist but not saucy is key to avoiding mushy mac and cheese.

Step 2: Warm the Chicken with BBQ Sauce

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your shredded chicken. Give it 2-3 minutes to heat through—this warms the chicken nicely and pulls out its flavor. Next, stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so the chicken is beautifully coated with that smoky, tangy sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium heat but avoid boiling. Slowly add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring continuously until the cheese melts into a silky, smooth sauce. Patience here makes all the difference—if you rush, you risk the cheese clumping or scorching.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Now, add the drained pasta to your cheese sauce, stirring until every noodle is dripping with cheesy goodness. Fold in the BBQ chicken mixture and blend everything evenly. Taste, then adjust salt and pepper as needed—you want that perfect balance of smoky, savory, and creamy.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I always top this dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh hint that contrasts the richness. Sometimes, a sprinkle of extra smoked paprika or a drizzle of BBQ sauce amps up presentation and flavor—plus, it makes it look irresistible!

Side Dishes

To round out the meal, I like to serve this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Cornbread or garlic bread also pairs wonderfully—it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover cheesy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve baked this recipe in individual ramekins topped with a crunchy panko and parmesan crust for an added texture surprise. It’s not only visually stunning but makes serving a breeze when you have guests over.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I transfer leftovers of this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe into airtight containers and keep them in the fridge. It stays creamy and flavorful for up to 3 days, so it’s perfect for meal prep or quick lunches during a busy week.

Freezing

If I’m making a big batch, I portion it out and freeze some. It freezes surprisingly well—just make sure to cool it completely before sealing tightly. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to keep moisture in. If you’re in a rush, reheating gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce works great too—just stir frequently to avoid sticking.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe truly hits the spot when you’re craving something hearty but still super easy to make. The combination of smoky BBQ, melty cheeses, and tender pasta has become a go-to comfort meal in my house—and I’m confident you’ll find it just as satisfying. Give it a try for your next cozy night in; I bet it’ll quickly become one of your favorite weeknight dinners too.

Print