If there’s one dish that brings pure joy to the dinner table, it’s BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Creamy, melty cheese wraps around tender pasta, while smoky, tangy barbecue chicken weaves through every bite, offering the best of both comforting classics. Whether for a weeknight treat or a crowd-pleasing party platter, this recipe is my go-to when I want the ultimate in family-friendly flavor. Believe me, once you savor that first forkful, you’ll see why BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese deserves a top spot in your recipe repertoire!

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is that it transforms a handful of simple ingredients into a flavor-packed masterpiece. Each element brings its own distinct taste or texture, contributing to that gooey, irresistible harmony we all crave in comfort food.

Chicken breast: Go for boneless, skinless and cooked chicken breast for tenderness and the perfect canvas for soaking up barbecue flavor.
Olive oil: A drizzle helps reheat and moisten the chicken, keeping every bite juicy and delicious.
Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape holds cheese sauce in every nook and cranny, but you can swap for any short pasta.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar adds that signature sharp tang and meltiness that’s the heart of great mac and cheese.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella brings stretch and luscious, creamy texture to balance the sharpness of cheddar.
Milk: Use low-fat or your preferred milk to create a silky, rich cheese sauce without heaviness.
BBQ sauce: Pick your favorite kind, whether you love smoky, sweet, or spicy—you’re the boss here!
Garlic powder: For a mellow, savory kick that deepens the overall flavor.
Onion powder: Rounds out the seasoning blend and enhances the meaty richness of the dish.
Smoked paprika: This spice adds color and a subtle smokiness that really ties the BBQ flavors together.
Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out all the best in every ingredient—season to your liking!
Fresh parsley (optional): Chopped parsley gives a fresh pop of color and herby brightness when sprinkled on top.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a big pot of water and cooking the elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta) until just al dente, according to the package directions. Be sure to give it a good stir occasionally so nothing clumps together—the noodles are the base that’ll soak up all the cheesy goodness. Once it’s ready, drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Warm and Flavor the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet set over medium heat. Add your shredded, pre-cooked chicken breast and give it a quick sauté for 2–3 minutes to warm it through. The key here is to keep the chicken tender, not crispy, as it’s about to get drenched in BBQ sauce!

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Sauce

Pour the BBQ sauce over the warmed chicken and scatter in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, as well as a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together so that every piece of chicken is glossy and coated. The aroma of smoky BBQ will let you know you’re on the right track!

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, working patiently so the sauce stays smooth and lump-free. Continue stirring until both cheeses melt completely, creating a silky, rich cheese sauce that’s impossible to resist.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add your drained macaroni into the cheesy sauce and toss to coat the pasta in all that creamy, gooey goodness. Next, fold in the BBQ chicken mixture, making sure everything is evenly combined. If needed, give it a final taste and tweak the salt or pepper to suit your preferences.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Dish out your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese while it’s piping hot. If you like, shower the top with a handful of fresh parsley for color and a burst of freshness—then get ready for rave reviews!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a simple garnish. A sprinkle of bright green chopped parsley adds a welcoming touch of color and freshness, while a light dusting of smoked paprika amps up the rustic BBQ vibes. If you’re feeling indulgent, a little extra shredded cheese on top never goes amiss!

Side Dishes

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is rich and satisfying all on its own, but it pairs beautifully with crisp coleslaw, grilled corn on the cob, or a big, leafy salad. These sides bring brightness and a little crunch, balancing out all that creamy, comforting goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, pile scoops of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese into individual ramekins or oven-safe mugs, then broil for a golden, bubbly top. You can also serve it family-style in a big, rustic casserole for an easy potluck centerpiece—or stuff it into baked potatoes for an over-the-top mashup!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing to avoid condensation that can make the pasta soggy.

Freezing

If you want to freeze some for later, transfer the cooled mac and cheese to a freezer-safe dish. It’ll hold up well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results; keep in mind the sauce may thicken upon thawing, but a splash of milk will restore its creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring in a little milk or water as needed to revive the creamy texture. Warm until it’s steaming hot throughout, and don’t forget to adjust the seasoning if needed before serving again.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a major time-saver and works perfectly for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Just shred the meat and follow the same steps—you’ll love the flavor and convenience.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use in this recipe?

The beauty of this recipe is that you can tailor it to your taste. Whether you prefer something smoky, spicy, or sweet, any good-quality BBQ sauce will work wonders. Try experimenting with a few to find your family’s favorite!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free macaroni or short noodle. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can dig in with confidence.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Go for it! Add-ins like sautéed bell peppers, corn, or even a handful of baby spinach folded in at the end make a nutritious and colorful addition to BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Is it possible to bake this dish?

Yes—if you love a crusty, golden top, transfer the finished mac and cheese into a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil or bake until bubbling and slightly browned. It takes the cozy factor up a notch!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a bubbling pan of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, ready to share with the people you love. It’s a dish that brings big smiles, empty plates, and lots of happy sighs. Give this recipe a try—I can’t wait to hear what you think!