BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the combination of creamy mac and cheese with smoky, tangy BBQ chicken. This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe takes two beloved comfort foods and merges them into one irresistible dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this recipe is packed with flavor, easy to make, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

This dish is the ultimate comfort food with a twist. The rich, cheesy pasta pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of BBQ chicken, creating a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and delicious. The best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy nights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Plus, this recipe is highly customizable. You can adjust the level of smokiness, spice, or cheesiness to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a mild BBQ sauce or something with a bit of heat, this dish adapts easily.

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded – You can use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut. For more delicious chicken recipes, check out our collection of Chicken and Meat Recipes.
1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the chicken.
8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice – Any short pasta works well.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar adds great flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For extra creaminess.
1 cup milk (low-fat preferred) – Whole milk can also be used for a richer sauce.
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand) – Choose a sauce with the right balance of sweet and smoky.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory notes.
1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth of flavor.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – Gives a subtle smoky taste.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the boiling water for extra flavor. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the BBQ Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes to warm it through. Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is fully coated in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Once warm, gradually stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until the noodles are evenly coated. Then, gently fold in the BBQ chicken mixture, making sure everything is well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
Customize the heat level – If you like spicy food, add a dash of cayenne pepper or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
Add extra veggies – Diced bell peppers, onions, or even corn can add texture and nutrition.
Make it crispy on top – For a baked version, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and broil for 3-5 minutes until golden.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use penne, shells, or cavatappi for a different texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the components separately or the entire dish up to 1 day in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess. Add fresh garnishes just before serving.

What BBQ sauce works best?
Choose a sauce that complements your taste preferences – whether sweet, smoky, or spicy. Popular brands like Sweet Baby Ray’s, Stubbs, or homemade BBQ sauce all work well.

What’s the best way to shred chicken for this recipe?
The easiest method is using two forks to pull apart warm cooked chicken breasts. For faster prep, use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on low speed – it shreds chicken perfectly in seconds!

Can I substitute the pasta for a gluten-free option?
Absolutely! Gluten-free elbow macaroni or penne works well. Cook slightly al dente as gluten-free pasta can become mushy when mixed with sauce and reheated.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Excellent additions include sautéed bell peppers, caramelized onions, or roasted corn. Wilted spinach or diced zucchini also blend beautifully with the BBQ-cheese flavors while adding nutrition.

What BBQ sauce works best?

Choose a sauce that complements your taste preferences—whether sweet, smoky, or spicy. Popular brands like Sweet Baby Ray’s, Stubbs, or homemade BBQ sauce work well.

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious twist on two classic dishes. It’s creamy, smoky, tangy, and packed with flavor, making it a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a must-try.

Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below! And if you loved this recipe, be sure to check out our other easy comfort food ideas for more inspiration. Happy cooking!