Name: BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Comfort Food Game Changer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 pound elbow macaroni (a classic choice for creamy mac and cheese); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (adds richness to the sauce); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (thickens the sauce); 3 cups milk (use whole milk for a richer flavor); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (gives a sharp flavor); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (contributes a gooey texture); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (enhances the flavor profile); 1 teaspoon onion powder (complements the garlic); to taste salt and pepper (essential for seasoning); 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast (use rotisserie chicken for convenience); 1 cup BBQ sauce (the star ingredient); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crunchy finish); to taste sliced green onions (for garnish); to taste chopped fresh parsley (optional for a pop of color)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing scent of smoky barbecue wafted through the air, transporting me to summer cookouts and joyful gatherings. This is the magic behind my BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese—a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction, perfect for when you’re yearning for a hearty, homemade meal. Not only is it a delightful twist on classic mac and cheese, but it also indulges your cravings with shredded chicken and a rich BBQ sauce, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can easily be made ahead, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Are you ready to create a cozy, flavor-packed masterpiece that your family will adore? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe together!

Why is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese amazing?

Flavor Explosion: Bold BBQ sauce combined with creamy cheeses creates a delightful blend that tantalizes your taste buds.

Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is perfect for gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and satisfied.

Comfort Food Classic: Combining mac and cheese with BBQ chicken gives a cozy twist to a beloved favorite.

Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.

Versatility: Feel free to customize with extra spices or veggies to suit your family’s tastes. You can even explore pairing it with a fresh side salad like my Simple Spinach Salad for a complete meal!

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Elbow macaroni – a classic choice for creamy mac and cheese, perfect for holding all that delicious sauce.

For the Cheese Sauce
• Unsalted butter – adds richness to the sauce, allowing the flour to form a smooth roux.
• All-purpose flour – thickens the sauce, creating that creamy base we all love.
• Milk – use whole milk for a richer flavor, but you can substitute with almond or oat milk if desired.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – gives a sharp and tangy flavor, a must-have for any mac and cheese.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – contributes a gooey texture that binds everything together.
• Garlic powder – enhances the flavor profile, adding depth to your sauce.
• Onion powder – complements the garlic, making your cheese sauce even more savory.
• Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the perfect balance.

For the Chicken Mixture
• Cooked and shredded chicken breast – your protein base; use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut!
• BBQ sauce – the star ingredient that transforms this dish into BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese; pick your favorite for maximum flavor.

For the Toppings
• Sliced green onions – add a fresh, crunchy element when sprinkled on top.
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional) – for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
• Breadcrumbs (optional) – sprinkle over the top for a crunchy, baked finish if desired.

Get ready to combine all these wonderful ingredients and create a dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat and Cook Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, generally about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ensuring it's ready for the cheesy goodness to come.

Step 2: Make the Roux
In a spacious saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until bubbling gently. Stir in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to create a paste, cooking it for about 1 minute until it's slightly golden. You’ll know it’s ready when it releases a subtle nutty aroma, signaling that it’s time to add the milk.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce
Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. Increase the heat slightly and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, which takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll want it to have a nice coating consistency to envelop the pasta later.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and mix in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth. This luscious cheese sauce is the heart of your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, so take a moment to appreciate its creamy texture!

Step 5: Season the Sauce
Enhance the flavor of your cheese sauce by adding 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well, allowing the spices to blend in with the rich cheese sauce, creating a beautifully seasoned backdrop for the pasta and chicken.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, pour the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece evenly. You want each shell to be wrapped in that delightful gooey goodness. This is where your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese starts to come together into a comforting, cohesive dish.

Step 7: Mix in BBQ Chicken
In a separate bowl, take 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken breast and mix it with 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is thoroughly coated. This will introduce a smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese, solidifying the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese flavor profile.

Step 8: Fold Chicken into Mac and Cheese
Gently fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the macaroni and cheese, making sure it's evenly dispersed. You want the BBQ goodness to be present in every bite. Once combined, transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish to prepare for baking.

Step 9: Add Topping
If you’d like a little extra crunch, sprinkle ½ cup of breadcrumbs evenly over the top of your dish. This optional step gives your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese a delightful texture contrast, enhancing the overall experience with a crispy finish as it bakes.

Step 10: Bake Until Golden
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; you’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbling, releasing an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort.

Step 11: Cool and Drizzle
Once baked, remove the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the dish to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve. Drizzle additional BBQ sauce atop for a flavor boost just before you dig in.

Step 12: Garnish and Serve
Finally, garnish your masterpiece with sliced green onions and, if desired, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. This adds a fresh crunch and visual appeal to your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, making it a delightful dish to share with family and friends!

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Elevate your meal experience with these delightful pairings that complement the soul-satisfying flavors of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Garlicky Green Beans: Fresh, crisp green beans sautéed with garlic provide a bright contrast to the creamy mac and cheese, making every bite feel balanced.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and a zesty dressing adds a refreshing crunch and tangy flavors that beautifully contrasts the richness of the mac.
Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet, grilled corn on the cob brushed with butter enhances the barbecue theme and brings a gentle sweetness to your plate.
Creamy Coleslaw: This tangy and crunchy side introduces a refreshing crunch, perfectly cutting through the rich cheese and BBQ for a delightful combination.
Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans echo the BBQ flavor, adding a hearty texture while delivering that satisfying southern comfort food experience.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a sweet, fruity finish that cleanses the palate and rounds out the meal beautifully.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and personalize this delicious dish to fit your family's tastes!

Gluten-Free: Substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta for a delightful, lighter option.
Cheese Lover's Dream: Mix in additional cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist and creamy texture.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese sauce for an extra zing.
Veggie Boost: Fold in cooked broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and a pop of color in every bite. This not only enhances the dish visually but also boosts its health factor.
Ranch Flavor: Replace BBQ sauce with ranch dressing for a tangy twist that gives this classic a unique flavor profile.
Baked Potato Style: Top with crumbled bacon and a dollop of sour cream for a hearty twist that's perfect for comfort food lovers.
Cajun Style: Season with Cajun spices for a bit of Southern flair, creating a dish full of bold, spicy flavors.
Campfire Edition: Mix in some roasted corn and black beans for a summery touch reminiscent of campfire BBQs.

These variations aren’t just creative; they offer a delicious way to enjoy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in ways that can cater to different dietary needs and flavor preferences. Serve alongside a simple side salad like my Crispy Kale Salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal your whole family will love!

Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Don't overcook the macaroni; it should be slightly underdone. It will continue cooking in the oven, soaking up the cheese sauce beautifully.
Cheese Choices Matter: For the best BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, use high-quality cheeses. Avoid pre-shredded options, as they contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
BBQ Sauce Selection: Choose a BBQ sauce you love! The flavor will shine through in the dish, so pick one that balances sweetness and tang for the perfect finish.
Even Mixing: When folding in the BBQ chicken and cheese sauce, make sure everything is well combined. This ensures that every bite is as delectable as the last, preventing bland bites.
Breadcrumb Tips: If you decide to add breadcrumbs, toast them lightly in a skillet with a bit of butter first. This extra step gives your topping a delightful crunch in the final bake.
Cooling Time: Allow your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to set for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps with serving and enhances the overall flavor as the components meld together.

How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Fridge: Store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat single servings in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.

Airtight Packaging: For best results, ensure the container is properly sealed to prevent freezer burn and keep flavors intact.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, making your week feel a little less hectic. Simply follow the recipe through Step 8, then cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain that delicious quality, avoid adding the breadcrumb topping until just before baking—this keeps them crispy! When you’re ready to serve, remove the dish from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. With this make-ahead option, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs

What type of macaroni should I use for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! For the best BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, I recommend using elbow macaroni, as its shape perfectly holds the creamy sauce. You can also experiment with cavatappi or shell pasta for a fun twist!

How should I store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Store your leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before sealing it to maintain optimal freshness!

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Very! To freeze, let the dish cool and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best results.

What’s the best way to reheat BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Step-by-step to reheat: If you’re reheating individual servings, pop them in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. For the entire dish, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes, adding a splash of milk to keep the creaminess!

Are there any dietary considerations for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Certainly! If you’re cooking for pets or have allergies, be cautious with seasonings and cheese varieties. Always check for gluten in pasta and choose dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk for lactose sensitivity. And, feel free to swap out chicken for a plant-based protein for vegetarians!

How do I avoid mushy pasta in my BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
To prevent mushy pasta, cook your elbow macaroni al dente. This means cooking it for about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. The pasta will finish cooking while baking in the cheese sauce, resulting in the perfect texture!