Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I tossed the creamy pasta into a bubbling pot, a delightful aroma wafted through the air, instantly drawing my family into the kitchen. There’s something uniquely satisfying about making BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese—a dish that combines all the comforts of a classic mac and cheese with a smoky barbecue twist. This recipe is not just a crowd-pleaser; it’s a quick solution for those busy weeknights when fast food feels like the only option. With its creamy depth and high-protein goodness, you’ll find it’s endlessly customizable—perfect for using up leftovers or adapting to your taste preferences. Are you ready to add this irresistible dish to your weeknight dinner rotation? Let’s dive in! Why is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese a Must-Try? Creamy Comfort: This dish delivers a luscious texture that wraps around each piece of macaroni, making it an indulgent staple. Savory Twist: The delightful blend of BBQ chicken with rich cheeses offers a unique flavor profile that elevates traditional mac and cheese to new heights. Quick and Easy: In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for busy nights when you crave homemade goodness. Customizable: Whether you want to sneak in some veggies or experiment with different cheeses—like cheddar or gouda—for a unique flair, the options are endless. For a truly comforting meal, pair it with a fresh salad or some crispy garlic bread. Leftover Hero: This dish is great for meal prep; store it in the fridge and easily reheat for a satisfying lunch or dinner later on! With delicious recipes like Baked Mac Cheese and Chili Cheese Dog Casserole, you’ll never run out of options for delightful meals! BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – This provides the tender protein that serves as the star of your dish; for convenience, you can substitute with rotisserie chicken. For the Pasta • Macaroni – The classic pasta choice that holds all that cheesy goodness; for variety, feel free to use penne or rotini instead. For the Cheese Sauce • Butter – Adds richness and helps in creating a silky sauce; olive oil is a lighter alternative if desired. • Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce to perfection for that creamy texture. • Milk – Creates a smooth consistency; non-dairy milk can be used for a lactose-free option. • Cheddar Cheese – Provides that beloved sharp flavor essential to this comforting dish; experimenting with gouda or pepper jack can add delicious twists. • Mozzarella Cheese – Enhances creaminess and gives a gooey texture that you’ll love. For the Seasoning • BBQ Sauce – Infuses your dish with a smoky, tangy flavor; choose your favorite style for a personal kick. • Garlic Powder – Elevates the savory notes throughout the dish. • Onion Powder – Complements the garlic for a delicious flavor boost. • Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to suit your taste preferences. Optional Add-ins • Jalapeños – For those who enjoy a bit of heat, spicy peppers can enhance your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese beautifully. • Vegetables – Consider adding fresh veggies to boost nutrition and flavor; think bell peppers or spinach for color and crunch. • Crispy Bacon Bits – For extra crunch and a flavorful twist, add crispy bacon. Now you have everything you need to make the delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese you’re going to love! Ready to get cooking? Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Step 1: Cook Chicken Start by seasoning your boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Step 2: Cook Pasta In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing any excess water to evaporate while you prepare the cheese sauce. Step 3: Make Cheese Sauce In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter until it foams. Stir in ¼ cup of flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently. Step 4: Add Cheese Reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to the thickened sauce. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This cheesy mixture is what makes your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese so indulgent. Step 5: Combine Transfer the drained macaroni and shredded chicken into the cheese sauce, gently folding everything together. Add in ½ cup of BBQ sauce, mixing until each piece of pasta and chicken is evenly coated in that rich, creamy goodness. The BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese should look enticingly luxurious at this point. Step 6: Serve Spoon the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese into individual bowls or a large serving dish. For an extra touch, drizzle some additional BBQ sauce on top and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot, and watch as everyone savors this comforting dish with delight! Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker meal prep, opt for shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. It saves time without sacrificing flavor. Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your cheese sauce before mixing in the pasta and chicken. This ensures the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is seasoned just right! Experiment with Cheeses: Don’t hesitate to mix cheeses; adding gouda or pepper jack can give your dish unique flavors and an even creamier texture. Layering Flavor: Consider sautéing some onions or garlic in the skillet before cooking the chicken for an aromatic depth that enhances the overall taste. Avoid Overcooked Pasta: Make sure to cook your macaroni just to al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot cheese sauce, avoiding mushy noodles. Make Ahead Options Preparing BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time is a game changer for busy weeknights! You can cook the chicken and pasta, as well as make the cheese sauce, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store each component in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to serve, combine everything, stir in the BBQ sauce, and pop it in the oven or microwave until heated through (just be cautious not to overcook the pasta). This way, you’ll enjoy a deliciously creamy dish that’s just as scrumptious as when it was freshly made, saving you time without sacrificing flavor! How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh. Freezer: Allow the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep! Reheating: For the best results, reheat individual portions on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Serving Suggestions: Enhance flavor by adding a drizzle of BBQ sauce before serving; this gives an extra kick to the dish when reheated. BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with these delightful twists! Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based cheese and non-dairy milk for a lactose-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Veggie-Packed: Skip the chicken and incorporate a colorful medley of veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even roasted zucchini for a nutritious boost. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for a fiery kick that spices up every bite. Bacon Bliss: Mix in crispy bacon bits for a salty crunch that perfectly complements the creamy cheese sauce. Cheese Variety: Explore different cheese combinations like gouda or smoked cheddar to introduce unique flavor profiles with every mouthful. BBQ Meat Medley: Feel free to use other cooked meats like pulled pork or smoked sausage for a different take on this classic comfort food. Crunchy Topping: Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan, then bake until golden for an irresistible crunch. Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in fresh herbs such as chives or parsley before serving to brighten up the dish with aromatic freshness. This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a canvas for your culinary inspiration! And if you love comfort food, you might also enjoy our Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake or indulge in the flavors of Fried Ham Cheese for a delightful twist! What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese To create a delightful meal around your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, consider these mouthwatering pairings that enhance your dining experience. Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread provides perfect contrast to the creamy mac and cheese, making each bite feel indulgent. Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the dish beautifully. Roasted Broccoli: Tender, caramelized broccoli not only adds a nutritious touch but also complements the smoky flavors of the BBQ chicken. Coleslaw: The cool, tangy crunch of coleslaw is a great way to cleanse the palate, enhancing your overall enjoyment of the creamy pasta dish. Its refreshing crunch is the perfect contrast. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn on the cob is a seasonal delight that pairs well, providing a sweet contrast to the savory flavors in your mac and cheese. Peach Iced Tea: This refreshing drink, with its subtle sweetness, perfectly balances the richness of the dish. It’s not only thirst-quenching but a delightful companion. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm chocolate chip cookies offer a comforting end to your meal with a nostalgic touch that pairs well with creamy comfort foods. Beer: A light lager or fruity wheat beer can enhance the BBQ flavors while cutting through the richness of the mac and cheese, creating a vibrant dining experience. Each of these options will elevate your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese and make mealtime a truly delightful occasion! BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best chicken for my BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese? Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness and flavor. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic alternative; it’s already cooked and will save you preparation time. How should I store leftovers of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy your delicious creation again without losing flavor or texture. Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese? Yes, you can! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back its creamy texture! What can I do if my cheese sauce doesn’t thicken properly? Not to worry! If your cheese sauce isn’t thickening as you’d like, you can create a little more roux by adding an equal amount of melted butter and flour to the sauce. Whisk it in while on low heat and allow it to cook for a couple of minutes to thicken up nicely. Is this recipe suitable for children with allergies? Always check the labels on your ingredients, especially the sauces and cheeses, as they can sometimes contain allergens like dairy or gluten. You can always opt for lactose-free cheese and gluten-free pasta to accommodate special dietary needs, making it child-friendly for those with specific allergies. Can I add vegetables to my BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to sneak in veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli. Simply sauté them briefly before mixing them into the cheese sauce. This not only boosts nutrition but also gives vibrant color to your dish! Enjoy making your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese and feel free to adapt it to your family’s taste! BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: Your New Favorite Comfort Dish BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combines creamy textures and smoky flavors for the ultimate comfort dish. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 650 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Use rotisserie chicken for convenienceFor the Pasta8 ounces Macaroni Penne or rotini can be used for varietyFor the Cheese Sauce4 tablespoons Butter Olive oil is a lighter alternative1/4 cup Flour2 cups Milk Non-dairy milk can be used for lactose-free option1 cup Cheddar Cheese Experiment with gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors1 cup Mozzarella CheeseFor the Seasoning1/2 cup BBQ Sauce Choose your favorite style1 teaspoon Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Onion Powderto taste Saltto taste PepperOptional Add-ins1/2 cup Jalapeños For heat1 cup Vegetables Fresh veggies like bell peppers or spinach1/2 cup Crispy Bacon Bits For crunch Equipment SkilletPotSaucepanWhisk Method Step-by-Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Mac and CheeseSeason chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown, then shred.In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in milk. Cook until thickened.Reduce heat, add cheddar and mozzarella to the sauce, stirring until smooth.Combine drained macaroni and shredded chicken with cheese sauce, adding BBQ sauce until well coated.Serve hot with optional additional BBQ sauce and fresh herbs. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 38gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 880mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg NotesUse rotisserie chicken for quicker meal prep, adjust seasoning to your taste, and consider adding different cheeses for unique flavors. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
