Why You’ll Love This Recipe
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect union of two comfort food favorites. Creamy, cheesy pasta meets smoky, tangy barbecue chicken in one irresistible dish. Each bite is a blend of tender chicken, rich sauce, and gooey cheese, making it both hearty and satisfying. This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings, offering both simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavor. The smoky BBQ sauce adds depth to the traditional mac and cheese, giving it a Southern-inspired flair that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary. It is also a versatile recipe—you can bake it for a bubbly, golden finish, keep it stovetop for a quicker meal, or even prepare it ahead of time for busy nights. If you are craving something indulgent, flavorful, and easy to put together, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese will not disappoint.
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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Comfort Food Classic with a Smoky Twist
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese topped with tender BBQ chicken, creating a comforting dish with the perfect balance of smoky, savory, and cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, combine shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and heat until warmed through. Set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook until sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine pasta with cheese sauce and spread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Top with BBQ chicken mixture and gently swirl it into the mac and cheese.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if desired.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use smoked gouda for an extra smoky flavor.
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe.
- Pairs perfectly with coleslaw or cornbread.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Elbow Macaroni
The classic choice for mac and cheese, elbow macaroni holds the creamy sauce perfectly in each bite.
Cooked Chicken
Shredded or diced chicken, preferably grilled or roasted, adds protein and pairs beautifully with the barbecue sauce.
BBQ Sauce
Provides a smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor that infuses the entire dish with Southern-style comfort.
Cheddar Cheese
Sharp cheddar delivers bold, creamy richness and the gooey texture that makes mac and cheese irresistible.
Mozzarella Cheese
Adds meltability and a stretchy, cheesy pull in every serving.
Cream Cheese
Makes the sauce extra creamy and smooth while balancing the tang of the BBQ sauce.
Milk
Helps create the base for the cheese sauce, ensuring a velvety texture.
Butter
Adds richness and helps start the roux for the sauce.
All-Purpose Flour
Combined with butter, flour thickens the sauce and gives it a luscious consistency.
Onion Powder
Provides a subtle savory depth without overpowering the cheesy flavor.
Garlic Powder
Enhances the sauce with a mild, savory kick.
Paprika
Adds color and a touch of smokiness that complements the BBQ sauce.
Salt and Black Pepper
Season the sauce and balance the bold flavors of cheese and BBQ.
Breadcrumbs (optional)
Used as a topping for a crispy, golden crust when baked.
Directions
Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Add the cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is well coated. Stir in the shredded chicken and half of the BBQ sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce on top and swirl gently for a marbled effect. Sprinkle breadcrumbs if desired for a crunchy topping.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese for presentation.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6–8 people, making it perfect for families or gatherings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, baking takes 25 minutes, and resting adds another 5 minutes. The total time is approximately 50 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Variations and Customizations
Buffalo Twist
Swap BBQ sauce with buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy version.
Bacon Lover’s Mac
Add crispy bacon crumbles for extra smokiness and crunch.
Three-Cheese Upgrade
Mix in gouda or Monterey Jack for added richness and complexity.
Vegetable Boost
Stir in sautéed bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Spicy Kick
Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for heat lovers.
Pulled Pork Swap
Replace chicken with pulled pork for a barbecue-inspired twist.
Tex-Mex Style
Add black beans, corn, and chili powder for a Southwestern flair.
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-friendly version.
Crispy Topping
Top with crushed tortilla chips or fried onions for added texture.
Individual Servings
Bake in small ramekins for personal-sized portions.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, it saves time and adds extra flavor.
Can I make BBQ chicken mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it and refrigerate before baking, then bake when ready.
Do I have to bake this dish?
No, you can serve it straight from the stovetop for a quicker version.
What BBQ sauce works best?
A smoky, slightly sweet sauce works well, but any favorite will do.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, shells, cavatappi, or penne are great alternatives.
How do I make it extra creamy?
Add more cream cheese or heavy cream to the sauce.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup—creamy, cheesy pasta elevated with smoky barbecue chicken and bold flavors. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or potlucks, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. With endless ways to customize, from adding bacon to swapping sauces, it can easily become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether baked for a golden crust or enjoyed straight from the stovetop, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy cravings and bring comfort to the table.
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