BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting twist on a classic favorite, combining creamy cheese sauce with smoky, tangy barbecue chicken. This easy dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, delivering rich flavors and satisfying texture in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 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)
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
3. Step 3: Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken in the sauce.
4. Step 4: In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Then, fold in the BBQ chicken mixture and continue stirring until everything is well mixed.
6. Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Step 7: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra smoky flavor, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the BBQ chicken mixture.
• Swap cheddar for smoked gouda or pepper jack for a different cheese twist.
• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra seasoning.
• Add a handful of cooked bacon or diced jalapeños for more texture and heat.

Storage

Store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Elbow macaroni is classic, but shells, rotini, or penne work well too.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and increase the cheese or add vegetables like roasted mushrooms, bell peppers, or smoked tofu for added flavor.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 74 reviews

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender shredded chicken tossed in smoky BBQ sauce with creamy cheddar and mozzarella cheese sauce, all blended with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. It’s an easy stovetop meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Sauce

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ 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)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside for later use.
2. Warm the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded cooked chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Mix the Chicken with BBQ Sauce and Spices: Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the warmed chicken. Mix thoroughly to evenly coat the chicken pieces with the flavorful sauce.
4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a separate medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses while continuously stirring until the cheese melts completely and forms a smooth, creamy sauce.
5. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir gently to combine ensuring all pasta is coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
6. Add BBQ Chicken to Pasta and Cheese: Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the cheese-coated pasta. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of chicken and BBQ flavors throughout the pasta and cheese.
7. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the mac and cheese, adding additional salt and pepper if necessary for balanced seasoning. Serve the dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

• You can use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
• For a smokier taste, add a bit more smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.
• Use whole milk or half-and-half for a richer cheese sauce.
• Add a crunchy breadcrumb topping and broil for a few minutes for a baked crust variation.
• This dish can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Keywords: BBQ Chicken, Mac and Cheese, Comfort Food, Cheesy Pasta, Easy Dinner, Weeknight Meal