Creamy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese served in a bowl

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fun and delicious twist on the classic comfort food. It combines the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with hearty BBQ chicken, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home. Plus, it’s easy to make and uses ingredients that are often found in your pantry. Everyone loves mac and cheese, so why not add some extra flavor with BBQ chicken?

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

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)

Directions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  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. Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken in the sauce.
  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. 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. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hot, straight from the stove. You can enjoy it as a main dish on its own or pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal. It also makes great leftovers, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch!

How to Store BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

To store any leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. When you are ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Tips to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

  • Use leftover rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal. Just shred it and add it to the pan.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese blends! Adding pepper jack or gouda can give it a unique flavor.
  • Adjust the BBQ sauce to your taste. If you like it spicier, try a hot BBQ sauce. For a sweeter flavor, go for a honey BBQ sauce.

Variation

You can easily turn this dish into a BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake. Just transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or beans and use vegetable broth instead of milk for a tasty vegetarian option.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and BBQ chicken mixture in advance and combine them just before serving. Store the two parts separately in the fridge for easy assembly.