BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly combines comfort food vibes with a smoky, tangy punch, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Creamy, cheesy macaroni gets a bold makeover with tender shredded chicken tossed in flavorful BBQ sauce and spices, creating a hearty, satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to devour. Whether it’s a weekday dinner rescue or a weekend indulgence, this recipe promises warmth and a touch of smoky sweetness in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe lies in its straightforward, simple ingredients that each play a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From tender chicken and melty cheeses to the perfect spice blend, every element is essential to creating this luscious dish.

• 450 g (1 lb) boneless skinless chicken breast: Cooked and shredded for tender, protein-packed bites that soak up BBQ flavor perfectly.
• 1 Tbsp olive oil: Adds a touch of healthy fat to warm the chicken evenly without drying it out.
• 225 g (8 oz) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice: The classic macaroni shape holds cheese sauce beautifully, but any pasta you love works.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Offers sharp, tangy richness that’s the backbone of the cheesy sauce.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings stretch and gooey texture for that irresistible mac and cheese pull.
• 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred): Keeps the sauce smooth and creamy without being too heavy.
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (sweet and smoky recommended): Infuses the chicken with that signature tangy-sweet BBQ flavor that sets this dish apart.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds depth and a gentle kick to the spice blend.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Enhances savory notes for an all-around balanced taste.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika: Provides smoky warmth, complementing the BBQ sauce beautifully.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of green and fresh, herbal brightness at the end.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni in plenty of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. This step ensures your pasta is perfectly al dente and ready to soak up all the creamy cheese sauce later. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it warm if possible.

Step 2: Warm the Shredded Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked and shredded chicken and warm it through for about 2 to 3 minutes. This step not only revives the chicken but also helps it absorb the upcoming BBQ sauce flavors better.

Step 3: Add the BBQ Sauce and Spices

Next, stir in the BBQ sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into the skillet with the chicken. Mixing these spices directly with the chicken allows the savory and smoky profile to become rich and well-rounded. Once combined, set the mixture aside to keep it ready for folding into the cheesy pasta.

Step 4: Warm the Milk

In a separate saucepan, gently warm the milk over medium heat. Warming the milk first prevents the cheese from clumping when added, ensuring your sauce will be perfectly smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Melt the Cheeses to Make the Sauce

Gradually add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the warm milk, stirring continuously until the cheese melts fully into a silky, luscious sauce. This combination creates the classic gooey texture and balanced cheese flavor that is absolutely essential in the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe.

Step 6: Coat the Pasta in Cheese Sauce

Pour the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and stir well, making sure every elbow macaroni piece is generously coated with rich, cheesy goodness. This step is crucial for that creamy comfort food experience we’re all craving.

Step 7: Fold in the BBQ Chicken Mixture

Gently fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the cheesy pasta, stirring until everything is well combined and heated through. This mingling of flavors infuses the creamy mac and cheese with that signature smoky, tangy BBQ punch that makes the dish truly special.

Step 8: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Give the dish a final taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve it hot to enjoy the most satisfying cheesy melt paired with BBQ-spiced chicken in every bite.

Step 9: Garnish for a Fresh Finish

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top, and if you like, add an extra drizzle of BBQ sauce for a dramatic finish that enhances both taste and presentation.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh parsley not only brightens the look but also adds a hint of herbaceous freshness that balances the richness of the cheese and BBQ sauce. A small drizzle of extra BBQ sauce on top can excite the smoky flavor lovers watching from the sidelines.

Side Dishes

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp, refreshing side salad or grilled vegetables to cut through the richness. For a heartier take, pair it with cornbread or baked beans to stick with the smoky BBQ theme.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch or bake it briefly with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar and breadcrumbs on top for a crispy golden crust. It’s a perfect crowd-pleaser whether plated simply or dressed up for company.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain its creamy texture and prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

This dish freezes very well for up to 2 months. Freeze in portions for convenient reheating later. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results and keep the texture smooth and creamy after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese slowly on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. This ensures every bite stays creamy and indulgent.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are perfect for richness and stretchiness, feel free to experiment with gouda or Monterey Jack to add different flavors and creaminess.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken for this dish?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken works wonderfully, especially shredded rotisserie chicken. It saves time and absorbs BBQ sauce beautifully, making this recipe even quicker to assemble.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap the elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure the BBQ sauce you use is gluten-free as well for a safe and delicious meal.

How spicy is the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe?

This dish leans more toward sweet and smoky than spicy. If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the BBQ chicken mixture to give it an extra kick.

Can I bake this mac and cheese for a crispy top?

Yes! After mixing everything together, transfer it to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly for a crunchy topping.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting and exciting about the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe that makes it a standout in any dinner rotation. Its creamy cheese sauce, smoky BBQ chicken, and satisfying textures all come together to create moments of pure joy at the table. Give this recipe a try soon—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!

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