Name: BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 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); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 14 reviews

Imagine a bubbling skillet of creamy cheese-laden pasta generously laced with smoky, tangy BBQ sauce and chunks of juicy, tender chicken—this is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in all its glory. It’s not just a comfort food classic; it’s a crave-worthy mashup of your two favorite dishes, wrapped up in a single, soul-warming main course. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser for family dinner, a protein-packed meal prep winner, or just an excuse to cozy up with a bowlful of happiness, this recipe will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds).

Ingredients You’ll Need

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese so irresistible? It’s all about the right balance of simple, flavorful ingredients—each one bringing something special to the pot. With the basics you probably already have on hand, you’ll build bold flavor and creamy texture in just about 25 minutes.

Chicken breast: Use cooked and shredded chicken for the best texture and a protein boost; rotisserie or leftover chicken works great too.
Olive oil: Adds flavor and helps reheat the chicken to keep it moist and luscious.
Elbow macaroni or pasta of choice: Macaroni is classic, but any bite-sized pasta will hold all that cheesy sauce beautifully.
Shredded cheddar cheese: The main star for that sharp, melty goodness that gives mac and cheese its signature flavor.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Lends that delicious stretchy factor and makes every bite extra gooey.
Milk (low-fat preferred): The creamy backbone of your cheese sauce; whole, 2 percent, or plant-based will all work.
BBQ sauce: Go for your favorite brand to put your personal stamp of sweet, smoky, or spicy on the dish.
Garlic powder: Brings a gentle, savory depth that’s essential for flavor.
Onion powder: Helps round out the seasoning profile and complements the BBQ notes.
Smoked paprika: Infuses just enough smokiness to echo the BBQ chicken vibe.
Salt and pepper: Adjust to taste for perfectly balanced, craveable flavor.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A pop of color and freshness for the final garnish.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape) in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Cook until just al dente so your pasta has a little bite—it’ll absorb more cheesy sauce later without turning mushy. Drain and set aside; you’re already on your way to BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese bliss!

Step 2: Warm and Season the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add your cooked, shredded chicken and gently sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through. Stir in that smoky BBQ sauce, then sprinkle on the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything until your chicken is juicy and beautifully coated. This is where the magic begins—the flavors start mingling, sending delicious aromas through your kitchen.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, pour in the milk and gently warm it over medium heat. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring constantly until the cheese melts into a lusciously smooth, creamy sauce. This cheese sauce forms the cozy heart of your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese and binds every ingredient together in cheesy harmony.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Add your drained, cooked pasta to the saucepan with the cheese sauce, stirring to make sure every noodle gets coated with that dreamy cheese. Then, fold in the BBQ chicken mixture from the skillet, combining thoroughly. Taste and tweak with extra salt and pepper as needed. By now, the kitchen should smell absolutely irresistible, and the finished product should look gloriously saucy and indulgent.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Dish up your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese while it’s hot and bubbling. Sprinkle with a little fresh chopped parsley if you like—this touch of green is like a confetti celebration for your masterpiece. Now, all that’s left is to grab a fork and dig in!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Vibrant garnishes don’t just make your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese look amazing—they add fresh flavor and contrast. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or scallions brightens up the richness, while a handful of crispy bacon bits or fried onions can put it right over the top. Let your creativity (and cravings) guide you.

Side Dishes

Pairing your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with the right side can turn a weeknight dinner into a feast. Think tangy coleslaw, garlicky green beans, or a crisp garden salad for a refreshing counterpoint. Even something simple like buttery corn on the cob or roasted broccoli will round out the meal and keep things colorful.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or potlucks, try serving individual portions of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in small ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets—super cute and easy to handle. You can also transform leftovers into mac and cheese muffins by baking scoops in a muffin tin, or pile it on top of baked potatoes for a fun, hearty twist. Don’t be afraid to get playful; this dish loves making an entrance!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is almost as exciting as the first helping! Cool any extras to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh and flavorful in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a standout choice for meal prep or grab-and-go lunches.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese freezes beautifully. Divide portions into freezer-safe containers, ensuring as little air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best outcome.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave single servings with a splash of milk, stirring halfway to keep everything creamy. For bigger portions, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit more milk or cheese to revive the sauce if needed. Avoid high heat to keep the texture just right.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. It’s flavorful, convenient, and shreds beautifully—just skip any skin or bones and you’re good to go.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

It’s totally up to your taste! A smoky or slightly sweet sauce complements the cheesy pasta wonderfully, but spicy lovers can use a hot BBQ sauce to kick things up a notch. Experiment until you find your favorite combo.

Can I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble everything a day ahead, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to eat, gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it extra creamy.

Are there any easy add-ins or swaps?

Yes—a handful of sautéed onions, peppers, or even crispy bacon bits can really elevate the flavor. You can use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or gouda, or swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer.

What’s the best way to keep the cheese sauce smooth?

Always warm the milk before adding cheese and stir constantly as it melts. Using freshly shredded cheese (not pre-shredded) helps too, as it melts more smoothly without additives.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a fast, soul-satisfying meal that’s sure to win hearts at the table, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is it! It’s bold, creamy, and packed with irresistible flavors. I hope you give it a try—your taste buds (and everyone else at the table) will thank you!