If comfort food had a winning lottery ticket, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese would be it. The irresistible mix of creamy, cheesy pasta and smoky, saucy chicken satisfies cravings you didn’t know you had. Whether you’re feeding a weeknight crowd or looking for a little indulgence after a long day, this dish delivers bold flavor and soul-warming goodness. With its golden cheese ribbons, tender bites of BBQ chicken, and just the right touch of tangy sweetness, you’ll want to make this one again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese? Every ingredient is straightforward — nothing fancy or hard to find — but each one brings its own magic. From the pasta that soaks up the sauce to the savory cheeses and boldly sauced chicken, every element delivers on taste, texture, and color.
- Elbow Macaroni (8 ounces): The classic shape for soaking up every bit of cheesy goodness and BBQ flavor.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds rich flavor and helps make a creamy sauce base.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Forms a simple roux to thicken the sauce so it hugs every noodle.
- Whole Milk (2 cups): Creates a smooth, luscious backbone for the cheese sauce.
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): The star cheese here, bringing bold, tangy flavor and that classic golden hue.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Melts like a dream for an extra stretchy, creamy texture.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Subtle, savory depth that rounds out all the flavors.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): For perfect seasoning — don’t forget to taste as you go!
- Cooked Shredded Chicken (1 1/2 cups): Rotisserie chicken is a fast, flavorful shortcut; leftovers work beautifully too.
- BBQ Sauce (1/2 cup, plus more for drizzling): Look for a sauce with a balance of tang, smoke, and sweetness to elevate the whole dish.
- Chopped Green Onions (2 tablespoons, optional): For a pretty finish and a pop of fresh flavor that cuts through the richness.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your macaroni in salted water until it’s perfectly al dente. This gives the noodles just the right bite, so they don’t turn mushy once mixed with the sauce. After draining, set the cooked pasta aside — you’ll be folding it into a molten cheese bath in no time.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes. This simple step forms the base of the creamy sauce, ensuring you’ll end up with a smooth texture and zero lumps.
Step 3: Whisk in Milk and Thicken
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly. This gradual method keeps your sauce velvety rather than clumpy. Let the mixture cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Seasonings
With the heat lowered, it’s time for magic — add the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the thickened milk mixture. Stir until melted and completely smooth. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, plus salt and pepper to taste, then breathe in the glorious aroma wafting from your stovetop!
Step 5: Combine the Macaroni and Cheese Sauce
Add your drained macaroni to the sauce and stir until every noodle is coated. You’ll notice the mixture turning wonderfully silky and decadent — as tempting as it is, hold off on grabbing a fork just yet.
Step 6: Prepare the BBQ Chicken
In a separate bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until every morsel is glistening. The combination of savory chicken and lip-smacking barbecue transforms this from classic comfort food into something a bit more special.
Step 7: Assemble Your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Gently fold the sauced chicken into the cheesy macaroni. If you’re a fan of saucy goodness, feel free to swirl in a touch more BBQ sauce at this stage. Serve it up hot, with a garnish of green onions and an extra drizzle of BBQ sauce if you’re feeling fancy.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Garnishes
A handful of freshly chopped green onions instantly brightens each bowl, adding both color and a crisp, oniony bite that wakes up your palate. For that authentic BBQ touch, don’t be shy with an extra drizzle of your favorite BBQ sauce right before serving — the pop of tangy-sweet glaze is pure gold.
Side Dishes
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese shines as a one-dish meal, but it also pairs beautifully with classic sides. Try serving it alongside a crisp green salad to lighten things up, or some roasted broccoli for a dose of veggie goodness. Cornbread, coleslaw, or even simple steamed green beans are all welcome guests at this comfort food party.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, ladle the mac and cheese into ramekins, sprinkle the tops with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake for individual servings with a crave-worthy crunchy top. BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese also makes a killer filling for stuffed bell peppers — just scoop, bake, and enjoy an all-in-one meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese keep surprisingly well in the refrigerator. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen, making tomorrow’s lunch something to look forward to!
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze some portions for later, let your mac and cheese cool completely, then pack it into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture; this helps prevent the sauce from separating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Stirring occasionally as it heats will restore that creamy consistency you loved the first time around. Don’t forget to finish with a fresh drizzle of BBQ sauce!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is a beloved classic for this recipe, you can easily swap it for shells, rotini, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and make sure the shape you choose is sturdy enough to hold up to all that sauce.
What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
A well-balanced barbecue sauce is key to making this dish truly pop. Opt for one with a mix of smokiness, sweetness, and tang — whatever matches your family’s taste buds. Homemade, store-bought, smoky, spicy, or even honey-based sauces work beautifully, so feel free to experiment!
Can I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate. Just reheat gently before serving, adding a splash of milk to keep the sauce smooth. Garnish with green onions and a fresh drizzle of BBQ sauce right before serving for the best texture and taste.
What can I do to make the dish a little healthier?
There are lots of ways to lighten things up! Try substituting reduced-fat cheese and milk, swap in whole wheat or legume-based pasta, or bulk up the recipe with extra veggies like spinach or roasted cauliflower. It’ll still taste indulgent while sneaking in some extra nutrition.
Is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese kid-friendly?
Absolutely — kids love the combination of cheesy noodles and sweet BBQ sauce! If little ones are sensitive to spice or strong flavors, simply choose a mild BBQ sauce and consider leaving out green onions as a garnish. It’s sure to become a requested favorite.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a meal that wraps up comfort, flavor, and ease in one cheesy, saucy bite, you simply have to try BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Every forkful is pure joy, whether you’re sharing it with friends or sneaking a midnight spoonful right from the pot. Give it a whirl this week — and don’t be surprised when it earns a spot among your most-loved recipes!
Print
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy macaroni gets a flavorful upgrade with tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy BBQ sauce. It’s a delicious twist on a classic dish that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the BBQ Chicken:
- 1 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 4 to 5 minutes. Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine the mac and cheese with BBQ chicken: In a separate bowl, toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well coated. Gently fold the BBQ chicken into the mac and cheese. Serve warm, garnished with a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce and chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- For extra flavor, bake the finished dish in a casserole dish topped with more cheese and breadcrumbs at 375°F for 10 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
