BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you’re craving a dish that combines the creamy comfort of mac and cheese with the smoky, tangy punch of barbecue, then BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is exactly what you need for dinner tonight. This recipe brings together tender shredded chicken coated in rich BBQ sauce mixed into a luscious, cheesy pasta base, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that satisfy every craving. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this dish hits all the right notes and has quickly become a beloved comfort food favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Fusion: BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese brings together smoky barbecue and creamy cheese for an irresistible taste you won’t forget.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The rich, gooey cheese combined with tender chicken and hearty pasta is pure comfort in every bite.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this mashup of familiar flavors, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable: You can tweak the BBQ sauce heat level or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a unique role in delivering perfect taste, creamy texture, and vibrant color. From the cheese selection to the choice of BBQ sauce, every component adds depth and character.

• Elbow Macaroni: Classic pasta shape perfect for holding cheesy sauce and shredded chicken.
• Cooked Chicken Breast: Tender, shredded chicken provides protein and absorbs the BBQ flavor beautifully.
• BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce to bring that smoky sweetness.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold cheese flavor and melts smoothly for creaminess.
• Milk or Cream: Essential for creating the silky cheese sauce base for ultimate comfort.
• Butter and Flour: Used to make a roux which thickens the cheese sauce to perfection.
• Onion and Garlic: Finely chopped to add a subtle aromatic depth.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds extra smokiness to enhance the BBQ profile.
• Salt and Pepper: To season and balance all the rich flavors.

Variations for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

One of the best things about BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is how easy it is to customize based on your pantry and personal preferences. Whether you want to make it spicier, lighter, or more veggie-packed, these variations allow you to make the dish your own effortlessly.

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery twist.
• Healthier Version: Substitute whole wheat pasta and use Greek yogurt in place of some cheese for tang and protein.
• Veggie Boost: Fold in corn, bell peppers, or sautéed spinach to add color and nutrition.
• Smoky Bacon: Toss in crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of smoky crunch.
• Different Cheeses: Mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier texture.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes, then drain and set aside. This ensures the pasta remains firm and bouncy, ready to soak up the cheesy BBQ sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, shred cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and toss with your favorite BBQ sauce. Setting this aside lets the flavors meld as you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour to form a smooth roux. Gradually add milk, stirring continuously until thickened, then lower the heat and add shredded cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until silky and creamy.

Step 4: Combine All Components

Mix the cooked macaroni and BBQ-coated chicken into the cheese sauce until everything is evenly coated and heated through. This mixture creates that perfect balance of textures and flavors in every spoonful.

Step 5: Bake for a Golden Finish (Optional)

Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—adding a delightful crust to the creamy dish.

Pro Tips for Making BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Choose Quality BBQ Sauce: The flavor of your BBQ sauce sets the tone, so pick one that suits your taste—smoky, sweet, or spicy.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta helps avoid mushy texture after mixing and baking.
• Shred Chicken Evenly: Uniform pieces ensure every bite has a perfect balance of protein and sauce.
• Use Sharp Cheddar: Sharp cheddar melts better and gives a richer flavor than mild cheese.
• Let the Cheese Sauce Thicken: Patience here results in a smooth, no-clumps sauce that clings beautifully to pasta.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions, crispy fried onions, or a handful of chopped fresh parsley on top to add freshness, crunch, and color contrast that brighten up the creamy dish.

Side Dishes

Pair BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with light, crisp sides like a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the main course.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins for a cozy, rustic presentation that feels special and inviting at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.

Freezing

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese freezes well; place leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil or in the microwave stirring occasionally to keep the cheese sauce creamy and avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient, flavorful option that works perfectly for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap regular elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the cheese sauce.

What BBQ sauce works best in this dish?

Use a BBQ sauce that matches your flavor preference—whether sweet, smoky, or spicy—to tailor the dish’s character to your liking.

Can I add vegetables to this mac and cheese?

Definitely! Adding veggies like corn, bell peppers, or spinach adds both texture and nutrition without overpowering the dish.

How do I make the cheese sauce extra creamy?

Use a mix of whole milk or cream and sharp cheddar cheese, and be sure to whisk the roux and cheese carefully for a smooth, creamy consistency.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dinner that feels like a big warm hug on a plate, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is your new go-to. It’s a delightful twist on classic comfort food that brings together the best of BBQ and cheesy pasta in a way everyone will love. So grab your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor and satisfaction in every delicious bite.

Related Posts

• Savory Garlic Butter Steak Bites
• Savory Garlic Butter Steak Bites
• Savory Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Print