If you have a craving for something comforting yet packed with a punch of smoky, tangy flavor, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. Imagine tender shredded chicken bathed in a luscious BBQ sauce, combined with perfectly cooked pasta and enveloped in a cheesy, creamy sauce that hits all the right notes. It’s a dish that brings cozy vibes and a crowd-pleasing taste together in one bowl, ready in just 25 minutes and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe uses simple ingredients that come together beautifully to create a rich symphony of flavors. Each element plays its role—whether it’s the tender chicken, the smoky spices, or the blend of cheeses—to give you a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable.
- Chicken breast (1 lb / 450g): Pre-cooked and shredded for tender, juicy protein that soaks up the BBQ sauce perfectly.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a light, fruity base for warming the chicken without weighing it down.
- BBQ sauce (1/2 cup): Choose your favorite brand for that all-important smoky, tangy kick that defines this dish.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle, savory depth that complements the BBQ flavors beautifully.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a mild sweetness and complexity to the seasoning mix.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Brings smoky warmth that enhances the overall BBQ vibe without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential basics that elevate all the flavors and season everything just right.
- Elbow macaroni or pasta of choice (8 oz / 225g): Classic comfort pasta that holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Sharp, melty, and flavorful, it creates the foundation of the cheese sauce.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Adds silky stretchiness and a mild creaminess that balances cheddar’s sharpness.
- Milk (1 cup, low-fat preferred): Helps create a smooth cheese sauce that’s luscious without being heavy.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A splash of green for freshness and visual appeal when serving.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by preparing your pasta according to the package instructions. Cooking it until just al dente is key here, so it keeps a nice bite and doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce later. Once cooked, drain well and set aside while you prepare the other components.
Step 2: Warm the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your cooked and shredded chicken to the pan, stirring it occasionally for about 2 to 3 minutes to warm through gently. This step not only heats the chicken but also helps it absorb the flavors of the next seasoning steps.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Now, stir in the BBQ sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything until the chicken is evenly coated in this glorious BBQ mixture and heated through. The smoky spices in the seasoning really bring out the best in the BBQ sauce here.
Step 4: Prepare Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan on medium heat, pour in the milk and gradually add your shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir constantly to melt the cheeses smoothly and create a creamy sauce that’s velvety and rich. Take your time here—it’s the heart and soul of the dish.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Add the drained pasta into the warm cheese sauce, folding it gently to make sure every piece of pasta is lovingly coated in that cheesy goodness. This step is where the magic starts coming together, combining texture and flavor in every bite.
Step 6: Add BBQ Chicken Mixture
Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the cheesy pasta carefully, ensuring the sauce coats the chicken and pasta evenly. You want that smoky, saucy chicken to be dispersed throughout to deliver flavor in each mouthful. Give it a good mix but be gentle so the pasta stays whole.
Step 7: Taste and Serve
Give your creation a quick taste test and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Serve it piping hot, and if you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top to add a pop of color and a little brightness that cuts through the richness perfectly.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Adding simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley or chives can bring a bright contrast to the smoky richness of this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe. For a little extra zing, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce on top can add another flavor layer.
Side Dishes
This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp sides such as a tangy coleslaw or a light garden salad. Crispy roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli also complement the creamy texture and smoky flavors, providing balance to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a casual dinner, serve this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins and bake briefly for a bubbly, golden top. You could also spoon it into a bread bowl for a fun twist that makes the whole meal feel even cozier and more indulgent.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy as a next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely if you want to prepare ahead. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it will last up to 2 months. Just make sure to leave some space for expansion and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened or dried out. Stir frequently to restore that creamy texture and ensure it’s heated through evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to use shells, penne, or even rotini. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the cheese sauce and chicken.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can swap the chicken for a plant-based alternative like grilled tofu or smoked tempeh. Just season and prepare them with the BBQ sauce as you would the chicken to keep the bold flavors intact.
What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
Any good quality BBQ sauce will shine here, but something smoky and slightly sweet tends to complement the cheese beautifully. Feel free to use your favorite store-bought brand or a homemade sauce for a personal touch.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can assemble everything except for the final garnish, then refrigerate. When ready, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and heated through. Adding a crispy breadcrumb topping before baking is a great option too!
How can I add more spice to this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe?
If you like some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning or mix in diced jalapeños. A spicy BBQ sauce can also give extra kick without overpowering the creamy cheese base.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is pure comfort food magic, combining the best of smoky BBQ and cheesy pasta indulgence. It’s quick, flavorful, and sure to become a staple for dinners that need an easy yet crowd-pleasing touch. Trust me, once you try this, it will be the recipe you reach for again and again when you want to spoil yourself or your loved ones with something truly special and satisfying.
Print
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and flavorful BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combining tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy BBQ sauce with a rich, cheesy macaroni base. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick family dinner with a delicious smoky twist.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the macaroni or pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to be combined later.
- Warm the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked and shredded chicken and stir for 2-3 minutes until heated through and slightly warm.
- Season the Chicken: Add the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly so the chicken is evenly coated in the flavorful BBQ mixture. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, pour in the milk. Gradually add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese while stirring constantly until the cheese melts fully and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the drained, cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat every piece of pasta with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Add BBQ Chicken Mixture: Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the cheesy pasta carefully. Mix well to ensure the chicken and sauce are evenly combined throughout.
- Taste and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness if preferred.
Notes
- Use low-fat milk to keep the dish lighter without compromising creaminess.
- For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch more smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the chicken mixture.
- To make ahead, prepare all components, combine, and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
- Gluten-free pasta can be used to make this dish gluten-free.
- If you like, sprinkle additional cheese on top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes for a baked cheese crust variation.
