If you’re in the mood for all-out comfort food that delivers big, bold flavor in every bite, it’s time to make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. This is the kind of dish that turns weeknights into celebrations, combining smoky barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and a duo of gooey cheeses all tangled up with macaroni. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to something over-the-top, this recipe is guaranteed to hit every cheesy, tangy note you love in a single skillet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple pantry staples plus a handful of fridge favorites are all it takes to create magic. Each of these essentials plays a special role, either bringing creaminess, smokiness, or that signature cheesy stretch to our BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
- Elbow macaroni (8 ounces): The classic pasta shape that perfectly holds onto the sauce and delivers that iconic texture.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps start the creamy cheese sauce with a luscious base.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): The key to thickening your cheese sauce without any graininess.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Provides the creamy backbone for our sauce, keeping everything velvety-smooth.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): For ultra-luxurious texture and mouthfeel—don’t skip it for best results!
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups): Brings classic tang and meltiness that’s essential to mac and cheese.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Lends a wonderful stretch and mild flavor to balance the cheddar.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): A hint of savory depth that makes the cheese sauce truly irresistible.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Layers on smoky flavor, echoing the barbecue theme beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing all the flavors into harmony—taste and adjust!
- Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): Rotisserie chicken makes things super easy and adds tons of flavor.
- BBQ sauce (1/2 cup, plus more for drizzling): The star of the show, bringing smoky-sweet notes throughout.
- Chopped fresh parsley (1/4 cup, optional): Sprinkled on top for color and a burst of freshness that brightens every bite.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. You want a little bite left, so the pasta can soak up some of that amazing cheese sauce without turning mushy. Once done, drain the pasta well and set it aside while you prep the rest.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Grab a large saucepan and set it over medium heat. Melt the butter, then whisk in the flour to form a roux—this just means stirring until it’s bubbly and the raw flour smell disappears, about one to two minutes. Slowly pour in your whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly. In a few minutes, you’ll see your sauce start to thicken into a dreamy, pourable base.
Step 3: Get Cheesy!
Lower the heat to keep things gentle, then stir in the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses in small handfuls. Keep the sauce moving as you add the cheese, and soon you’ll watch it transform into pure velvety bliss. Once fully melted, season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper for a punch of flavor.
Step 4: Make It BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Now for the part that makes this dish unforgettable: Stir in the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce, letting the flavors get to know each other in your skillet. The sauce will become slightly tangy, sweet, and smoky—just what you want. Fold in the drained macaroni and stir until everything is perfectly coated in cheesy, BBQ goodness.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Spoon your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese into a serving dish or right onto plates if you can’t wait. Drizzle with a little more BBQ sauce for extra zip, and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. This little flourish makes it feel special, even on the busiest night.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Garnishes
This dish is already a showstopper, but the right garnish takes it straight to restaurant-level. A zigzag of extra BBQ sauce amps up the flavor, while a handful of chopped parsley gives a fresh, herby finish. You could also try a sprinkle of crispy fried onions, a dash of smoked paprika, or even sliced green onions to add crunch and color.
Side Dishes
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want to round out the meal, pair it with favorites like buttery garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. Tangy coleslaw or pickles also make great companions, cutting through the richness and adding a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Let your creativity shine! Serve your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins for dinner parties, or pile it high in a cast iron skillet for a rustic, family-style feast. For game days, try spooning it into baked potato skins or using it as a topping for nachos—BBQ mac and cheese nachos will steal the show every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, so reheated portions can be just as delicious (if not more so) the next day!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Simply portion cooled mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers, seal tightly, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to keep everything nice and creamy. Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. If you’re reheating in the microwave, stir halfway through to prevent uneven heating. Don’t forget to drizzle on some fresh BBQ sauce and a touch of parsley before serving again!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the classic choice for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, feel free to use shells, cavatappi, or rotini. Just be sure to cook your pasta until al dente so it holds up under the cheese sauce.
What kind of chicken works best?
Rotisserie chicken is a total time-saver, but any cooked and shredded chicken will work. Grilled, baked, or even leftover barbecue chicken adds tons of flavor—just make sure it’s well-seasoned for best results.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Of course! Add your favorite hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or even a few dashes of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. Pepper jack or smoked gouda are excellent cheese swaps for those who want a little heat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make gluten-free BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, use certified gluten-free pasta and swap the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free alternative. Double-check that your BBQ sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I cook this ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! Prepare the mac and cheese as directed, then spread it in a baking dish. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. When it’s party time, warm it in a low oven until bubbly, then garnish and serve for a totally fuss-free main course.
Final Thoughts
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is that feel-good food everyone craves—rich, tangy, and oh-so-cheesy, all with a smoky barbecue twist that makes it extra special. If you’re ready to treat yourself (and your loved ones) to some serious comfort, add this one to your must-make list. You’ll want to come back to it again and again!
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 blended with tender shredded chicken and a smoky BBQ sauce for a delicious twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
Macaroni:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Additional:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for drizzling)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then slowly add milk and cream. Stir in cheeses until smooth. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Add chicken and BBQ sauce to the cheese mixture, then mix in cooked macaroni.
- Serve: Transfer to a dish, drizzle with more BBQ sauce, and garnish with parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- For a spicier kick, add hot sauce or jalapeños.
- Substitute mozzarella with smoked gouda or pepper jack for a different flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
