BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Oh, you’re going to love this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe—it’s like the ultimate comfort food mashup. Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese meets smoky, tangy BBQ chicken for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I’ve made this on busy weeknights when I want something quick but still crave that indulgent, homemade vibe.

This recipe isn’t just about deliciousness; it’s super versatile and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or bringing something special to a potluck, the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is always a winner. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and elevate your usual mac and cheese game.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe plays a key role in building those bold, comforting flavors you’ll crave. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates a perfect cheesy melt, while the BBQ sauce brings just the right tang and smokiness.

• Chicken breast: Using cooked, shredded chicken makes things quick and easy—rotisserie works great if you’re pressed for time!
• Olive oil: A little bit helps warm the chicken and carry the flavors evenly.
• Elbow macaroni (or pasta): Classic mac and cheese pasta, but feel free to swap for shells or cavatappi for extra fun texture.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar packs a punch of cheesy goodness and deep flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese: Adds creaminess and helps the cheese sauce stay silky and stringy.
• Milk: I prefer low-fat milk to keep the sauce creamy but not too heavy.
• BBQ sauce: This is your flavor star—pick your favorite brand or homemade version for a personal touch.
• Garlic powder: Gives a subtle warmth without overpowering the BBQ sauce.
• Onion powder: Enhances the savory depth beautifully.
• Smoked paprika: This is the secret ingredient that amps up the smoky vibes.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing all the flavors just right.
• Fresh parsley (optional): I love adding a sprinkle for color and a hint of freshness when serving.

Variations

I like to mix things up with this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe depending on my mood or what’s in the fridge. It’s a forgiving recipe that you can personalize easily, so don’t hesitate to get creative!

• Smoky Bacon Addition: Adding crispy bacon bits is my go-to when I want an extra layer of flavor and crunch. It turns this dish into an even heartier feast.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even corn kernels for a pop of sweetness and texture. I’ve found it makes the dish feel a bit lighter too.
• Spicy Kick: If you like it hot, a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños stirred into the cheese sauce works wonders.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives to enjoy this recipe without the dairy but keep the same creamy comfort.
• Different Proteins: Swap chicken for pulled pork or even smoked sausage for a tasty twist on the BBQ theme.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by boiling your elbow macaroni according to the package directions. I always salt my water generously—it seasons the pasta from the inside out and boosts flavor. Once cooked al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t overcook here, as the pasta will cook a little more when mixed with the sauce.

Step 2: Warm and Flavor the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add your shredded chicken. Let it warm for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t dry out. This step helps the chicken soak up the BBQ sauce flavors more effectively.

Step 3: Mix in BBQ Sauce and Spices

Stir the BBQ sauce right into the chicken along with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mix will coat the chicken in smoky, sweet sauce that makes the heart of this recipe. Be generous with the BBQ sauce, but adjust to your taste.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat—it’s important not to boil but just get it hot enough to melt the cheese smoothly. Slowly add shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring constantly until the sauce is creamy and lump-free. Patience here pays off for silky cheese sauce every time.

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

Pour the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and give it a good stir to coat every piece. Then fold in the BBQ chicken mixture gently but completely—this way the smoky, saucy chicken will swirl deliciously through your mac and cheese.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste your creation and add salt and pepper if needed. Serve it hot, and if you like, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for that pretty pop of green and fresh note.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a sucker for fresh parsley sprinkled on top—it brightens the rich flavors and adds a fresh touch. Sometimes I’ll add a few sliced green onions or a dash of extra smoked paprika for color and a hint more smokiness. Crispy fried onions also make a fantastic crunchy garnish if you want some texture contrast.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crunchy green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness. For a real BBQ vibe, I like serving it with coleslaw or grilled corn on the cob—classic summer flavors that complement the dish perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For celebrations, I’ve served this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled until bubbly and golden. It feels special and cozy. Another fun idea is layering the mac and cheese in a casserole dish topped with crushed BBQ-flavored potato chips for a crispy crust that everyone loves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, and they usually last up to 3 days. When you reheat, adding a splash of milk helps bring back the creamy texture if it starts to thicken too much. I usually pop a lid or foil on to keep moisture in.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this recipe a couple of times with good results. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers before baking for best results, or freeze fully cooked portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep it creamy and delicious.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or oven at low heat, adding a splash of milk if it’s dried out a bit. Stir halfway through to warm evenly. This helps preserve the cheesy sauce’s velvety texture so it doesn’t turn rubbery or tough.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites for a reason—it’s the perfect blend of cheesy comfort and smoky BBQ flavor that feels a little indulgent but is incredibly easy to make. I always recommend giving it a try if you want a crowd-pleasing dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Trust me, once you make this, it will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection!

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