BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup—creamy, cheesy pasta meets smoky, tangy BBQ chicken for a rich, satisfying dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this hearty meal delivers layers of flavor and texture in every bite. It’s indulgent, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

elbow macaroni
shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great)
BBQ sauce
butter
all-purpose flour
milk
heavy cream
sharp cheddar cheese
mozzarella cheese
smoked paprika
salt
black pepper
green onions (optional, for garnish)

directions

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth and slightly thickened.

Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy.

Season the cheese sauce with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.

In a separate bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until fully coated.

Gently fold the BBQ chicken into the mac and cheese, or layer it on top if preferred.

Optional: transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes for a bubbly finish.

Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4-6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Optional broiling time: 3 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Use pulled pork instead of chicken for a smoky twist.
Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
Try a blend of cheeses like gouda or pepper jack.
Mix in cooked bacon for added crunch and flavor.
Top with crispy fried onions for texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Freeze in portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought BBQ chicken?

Yes, store-bought BBQ chicken works well and saves time.

Is it better to bake it?

Baking is optional but adds a nice crispy top layer if desired.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and store it in the fridge. Bake or reheat when ready to serve.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A sweet and smoky BBQ sauce pairs perfectly, but use your favorite.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Pre-shredded works but fresh cheese melts better and gives a smoother sauce.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes, shells, cavatappi, or penne are great alternatives.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from curdling?

Avoid high heat and whisk constantly when adding dairy.

Can I make it spicier?

Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or use spicy BBQ sauce.

Is it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, corn, bell peppers, or broccoli are great additions.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a flavor-packed fusion that brings together the best of creamy pasta and smoky BBQ. Whether served straight from the pot or baked for a crispy finish, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to love and hard to resist. Perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings, it’s bound to become a regular favorite.

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