BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Looking for the ultimate comfort food that packs a punch of flavor and brings creamy, cheesy goodness to your table? BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the answer you didn’t know you needed! This dish takes the rich traditions of mac and cheese and infuses them with the smoky, tangy magic of barbecue chicken for a meal that’s downright crave-worthy. Whether it’s a family weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about what goes into making the perfect BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese! These ingredients are simple, easily found, and each one adds an essential element—whether it’s creaminess, depth, or a pop of color and freshness. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Elbow macaroni (8 ounces): The classic shape for catching all that luscious cheese sauce in every bite.
- Cooked chicken, shredded (2 cups): This adds protein and soaks up the barbecue flavors beautifully.
- Barbecue sauce (½ cup): The star ingredient that gives a smoky-sweet kick and ties the whole dish together.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Starts the cheese sauce with a rich, creamy foundation.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps create a smooth, thick cheese sauce by combining with the butter to make a roux.
- Milk (2 cups): The base that brings the sauce to silky perfection—it’s the key to that classic creamy texture.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups): Brings bold, tangy flavor and satisfying meltiness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Adds stretch and extra creaminess to balance the cheddar.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a punch of savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Provides subtle smokiness that highlights the barbecue theme.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Just enough to enhance all the flavors without overwhelming them.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Gives a gentle kick and roundness to the cheese sauce.
- Chopped green onions (¼ cup, optional): A fresh, colorful finishing touch that brightens every serving.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by boiling your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Be sure to go for that perfect al dente texture—just firm enough to hold up to all the creamy cheese sauce. Once the noodles are ready, drain them well and set aside. Resist the urge to overcook! A little bit of bite is what gives the casserole its ideal texture.
Step 2: Prepare the BBQ Chicken
While your macaroni is cooking, grab a small bowl and toss the shredded cooked chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce until every piece is coated in saucy, smoky goodness. This step is where BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese gets its unmistakable tang and sweet flavor—don’t skimp on swirling that sauce!
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Next, it’s time to build the backbone of this dish: the cheese sauce. In a large saucepan, melt your butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about a minute to make a smooth roux. Slowly drizzle in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring as it heats, and you’ll notice the sauce begin to thicken after about 3 to 4 minutes—it should coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready for cheese.
Step 4: Melt the Cheeses and Season
Lower the heat and add both the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, along with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and sumptuously creamy. This is where your kitchen will start smelling absolutely irresistible!
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Add your cooked macaroni straight into the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat every noodle. Next, fold in the barbecue chicken, being careful not to break up the pasta. Once everything is evenly distributed and the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is looking fabulously creamy, transfer it all to your serving dish. Sprinkle with fresh green onions if you’re in the mood for a pop of color and freshness, and dig in while it’s steamy and warm.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes! Finish your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with a handful of sliced green onions for freshness and a vibrant crunch. For even more visual appeal, try a sprinkle of extra smoked paprika, a dusting of crispy fried onions, or even a pinch of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Side Dishes
This dish can absolutely stand on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a simple side of steamed broccoli is always a win. The balance of cheesy richness with cooling, crunchy vegetables makes for a more rounded meal. Try serving with roasted corn on the cob or a light vinegar-based slaw for a classic barbecue vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun spin, spoon the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese into individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for single servings at a party. To go all out, bake the mixture and top it with toasted breadcrumbs or serve in hollowed-out bread bowls for an over-the-top comfort food feast. Sometimes, a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce or a handful of crushed tortilla chips on top is just the thing to spark delight at the table!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), simply let your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and deepen, making leftovers even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
Want to save some for even later? BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. When the craving strikes, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
For a quick meal, reheat your mac and cheese in the microwave in 60-second bursts, stirring between each. To keep things extra creamy, add a splash of milk before heating. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently and adding milk as needed to restore that silky sauce.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Just shred and toss it with barbecue sauce as you would any cooked chicken, and you’re on your way to deliciousness.
What’s the best barbecue sauce for this recipe?
Your favorite store-bought or homemade barbecue sauce will work beautifully. Go smoky if you like heat, sweet if you want a milder flavor, or a spicy blend for some zing. The sauce infuses the chicken and cheese with unforgettable barbecue character.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the roux. Just check your barbecue sauce label to confirm it’s gluten-free as well. You won’t sacrifice a single ounce of flavor.
How can I make it extra cheesy?
For the ultimate cheese pull, increase the mozzarella or toss in a little Monterey Jack or Gouda. You can also sprinkle more cheese on top before baking for an outstanding golden, bubbly finish.
Is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese kid-friendly?
This dish is beloved by kids and grown-ups alike! If you have picky eaters or spice-sensitive kiddos, opt for a milder barbecue sauce and maybe skip the smoked paprika. The creamy, tangy combo is irresistible for every age.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a warm, welcoming, quietly show-stopping meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is all about bold flavors, gooey cheese, and that familiar comfort we all crave. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try soon—don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds!
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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy macaroni is combined with tender barbecue chicken for a flavor-packed dish that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Elbow Macaroni:
8 ounces
Cooked Chicken, shredded:
2 cups
Barbecue Sauce:
½ cup
Butter:
2 tablespoons
All-Purpose Flour:
2 tablespoons
Milk:
2 cups
Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded:
2 cups
Mozzarella Cheese, shredded:
1 cup
Garlic Powder:
½ teaspoon
Smoked Paprika:
½ teaspoon
Salt:
¼ teaspoon
Black Pepper:
¼ teaspoon
Green Onions, chopped (optional):
¼ cup
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Toss the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce in a small bowl until well coated.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
- Combine and serve: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Gently fold in the barbecue chicken. Transfer to a serving dish and top with green onions if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
