If you’re on the hunt for a comforting dish that perfectly blends smoky, cheesy goodness with tender chicken, look no further than this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s a delicious twist on a classic favorite that brings together creamy mac and cheese and the bold flavors of BBQ chicken in one warm, satisfying bowl. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this recipe never fails to impress with its rich, hearty taste and irresistible texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together to create this unforgettable BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe, each playing an essential role in building layers of flavor, creaminess, and that signature smoky kick.
- Boneless skinless chicken breast (450 g / 1 lb): Cooked and shredded, it’s the star protein that brings heartiness.
- Olive oil (1 Tbsp): Helps warm up the chicken without overpowering the flavors.
- Elbow macaroni or pasta of choice (225 g / 8 oz): Classic tender pasta that soaks up every ounce of cheesy sauce.
- Cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded): Sharp and melty, giving depth and tang to the dish.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds a smooth, stretchy creaminess to balance the cheddar’s punch.
- Milk (1 cup, low-fat preferred): Creates the luscious cheese sauce base, keeping it velvety and smooth.
- BBQ sauce (½ cup, sweet and smoky recommended): The secret ingredient for that irresistible smoky sweetness.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Enhances savory notes without overwhelming.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
- Smoked paprika (½ tsp): Elevates the BBQ flavor with a gentle smoky warmth.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for rounding out every bite.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A pop of color and freshness to brighten the dish at the end.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions in plenty of salted boiling water. This ensures your pasta is perfectly seasoned from the inside out. Once tender, drain it and set it aside so it’s ready to soak up the cheese sauce.
Step 2: Warm the Shredded Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add your shredded chicken. Warming the chicken gently for 2 to 3 minutes helps develop flavor and ensures it mixes seamlessly with the BBQ sauce later on.
Step 3: Make the BBQ Chicken Mixture
Next, stir in the BBQ sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This blend infuses the chicken with smoky-sweet and spicy notes, creating an irresistible filling that defines this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Step 4: Warm the Milk
While your chicken simmers, gently warm the milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Doing this creates the perfect base temperature for melting the cheese, which is crucial for that smooth, creamy texture everyone loves.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese into the Milk
Gradually add shredded cheddar and mozzarella to the warmed milk, stirring consistently until the cheese melts completely and forms a glossy, velvety sauce. This process is where the magic of creamy mac and cheese really begins.
Step 6: Combine Pasta with Cheese Sauce
Add the cooked pasta directly into your cheese sauce, stirring to coat every piece thoroughly. This step makes sure each forkful bursts with ooey-gooey cheese flavor intertwined with tender pasta.
Step 7: Fold in the BBQ Chicken
Gently fold the flavorful BBQ chicken mixture into the cheesy pasta, stirring until everything is evenly combined and heated through. This melding of smoky chicken and rich cheese is the heart of this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Step 8: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Give your creation a final taste and add salt or pepper as needed to perfectly tailor the dish to your cravings. Serve it hot for the best melty, satisfying experience.
Step 9: Garnish and Enjoy
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and, if you’d like, drizzle additional BBQ sauce over the top for an extra punch of flavor. Your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is now ready to delight!
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice that adds a bright herbaceous note and visual appeal. If you want to crank things up, a dash of crispy fried onions or a handful of chopped scallions introduces wonderful texture and fresh bite.
Side Dishes
This rich and flavorful mac and cheese pairs beautifully with simple, light sides such as a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to balance the meal’s richness and add a refreshing crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe in individual oven-safe ramekins topped with extra cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. Alternatively, scoop it into warm bread bowls for a rustic, satisfying presentation that’s perfect for casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator where it will keep fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead meal or next-day treat.
Freezing
This dish also freezes well! Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Warm leftovers over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or water if needed to loosen the sauce and restore that creamy consistency you fell in love with in the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that adds extra flavor and saves time without compromising on taste.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine; just consider adding a tiny pinch of liquid smoke or chipotle powder to maintain that smoky BBQ vibe.
Is it okay to use a different cheese?
Definitely. Cheddar and mozzarella provide great melt and flavor, but feel free to experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different twist.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with smoky grilled vegetables or plant-based protein, and keep the BBQ sauce for that beloved smoky flavor.
How spicy is this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe?
It’s generally mild with a smoky kick, but you can always adjust the heat by choosing a spicier BBQ sauce or adding a dash of cayenne pepper.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is a true comfort food champion — creamy, cheesy, smoky, and wonderfully satisfying. Whip it up any time you’re craving a warm hug on a plate that’s brimming with bold flavors. I guarantee once you try this, it will become one of your go-to recipes for family dinners and casual get-togethers alike!
Print
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender shredded chicken tossed in smoky BBQ sauce with creamy cheddar and mozzarella cheese sauce, all mixed with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 450 g (1 lb) boneless skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (sweet and smoky recommended)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- 225 g (8 oz) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and warm through for 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated evenly.
- Mix Chicken with BBQ Sauce: Stir in BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the warmed chicken. Mix thoroughly and then set the mixture aside.
- Warm Milk: In a separate saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat just until heated but not boiling to prepare for the cheese sauce.
- Melt Cheeses: Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the warmed milk, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Combine with BBQ Chicken: Fold in the BBQ chicken mixture, stirring until well combined and heated through evenly.
- Season and Serve: Taste the mac and cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot for best flavor and texture.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce for an appealing presentation and added flavor.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken breast leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- If you prefer a spicier BBQ flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- For a creamier sauce, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds a fresh touch but can be omitted if unavailable.
