Name: Irresistibly Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Substitution: Rotisserie chicken for quick prep.); 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce (Use your favorite BBQ sauce - sweet or spicy.); 8 ounces Macaroni (Substitution: Any short pasta like penne or rotini can be used.); 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Substitution: Gouda or cream cheese can alter the flavor profile.); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese; 2 cups Milk; 2 tablespoons Butter; 2 tablespoons Flour; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Pepper

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of mac and cheese, and when you add BBQ chicken into the mix, it’s a match made in heaven! One evening, while trying to shake off a fast-food fatigue, I decided to transform classic comfort food into something uniquely delightful. Picture it: creamy pasta enveloped in tangy barbecue sauce, tender chunks of juicy chicken, and the ooey-gooey magic of melted cheese, all ready in under 30 minutes.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese brings great flavor without the stress. The best part? It’s wonderfully customizable! Feel free to kick up the heat with jalapeños or throw in your favorite cheeses for a twist. With every bite, you’ll experience a burst of smoky, cheesy goodness that’s sure to impress. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this hearty dish that will make your taste buds dance!

Why BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Will Wow You

Comforting, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying, this dish takes classic macaroni and cheese to a whole new level. Quick prep time means you can whip it up in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy families! Customizable options let you swap in your favorite cheeses or add some heat with jalapeños. Crowd-pleaser status is guaranteed, making it perfect for gatherings. High-protein goodness from the chicken ensures this dish fills you up without the guilt of fast food. You might also want to explore serving it alongside a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a well-rounded feast!

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein source, providing tenderness. Substitution: Rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
• BBQ Sauce – Adds a smoky, tangy flavor to the chicken. Substitution: Use your favorite BBQ sauce – sweet or spicy.

For the Pasta
• Macaroni – Acts as the base, holding the creamy cheese sauce. Substitution: Any short pasta like penne or rotini can be used.

For the Cheese Sauce
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides a rich, cheesy foundation. Substitution: Gouda or cream cheese can alter the flavor profile.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Offers a gooey texture for extra meltiness.
• Milk – Creates a creamy consistency for the sauce.
• Butter – Adds richness and aids in sauce creation.
• Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce to the desired creaminess.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Enhances savory depth.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and flavor balance.

Get ready to savor every bite of your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with these simple yet essential ingredients!

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Cook the Chicken: Season your boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, sauté over medium heat with olive oil for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Shred the chicken and set aside.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, cooking for about 1 minute, then gradually add 2 cups of milk while stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of sharp cheddar and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese until completely melted. Taste and adjust seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine Everything: Fold the shredded chicken and cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, mixing in 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce until everything is well-coated.
Serve: Spoon the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese into bowls, serving hot. For an extra tangy kick, garnish with a drizzle of BBQ sauce or fresh herbs if desired.

Optional: Add crispy bacon bits on top for a delightful crunch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Make your meal truly unforgettable by pairing this hearty dish with complementary sides and drinks that elevate the entire dining experience.

Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and balances out the creaminess, making it a perfect match.
Fresh Green Salad: A vibrant mix of greens with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the mac and cheese, adding a refreshing burst of flavor.
Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy dressing of coleslaw provide a satisfying contrast, while the sweetness and acidity help to brighten each bite of the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies offers earthy flavors that harmonize beautifully with the smokiness of the dish, enhancing your meal’s depth.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy corn pairs perfectly with the smoky BBQ flavors, creating a classic summer vibe that is sure to please.
Chilled Lemonade: A tall glass of refreshing lemonade adds a zesty kick, perfect for cleansing the palate between bites of cheesy goodness.

Enhancing the experience with these sides will create a delightful and balanced meal that your family and friends will rave about!

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Variations

Explore exciting ways to customize your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to match your taste buds and pantry!

Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a fiery kick. Elevating the heat level brings an extra layer of excitement!
Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed spinach or bell peppers to incorporate more nutrition and color. Not only do veggies add vibrancy, but they also enhance the overall flavor!
Bacon Crunch: Mix in crispy bacon bits for added crunch and savory depth. Nothing elevates comfort food quite like the irresistible pop of crispy bacon!
Different Cheeses: Swap in pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist on flavors. This simple change allows you to explore new cheesy dimensions that will surprise your palate!
Creamy Variation: Stir in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to enhance richness and creaminess. This creates a luscious texture that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!
BBQ Sauce Variety: Experiment with different BBQ sauces, like mustard-based or honey BBQ. This allows you to manipulate the sweetness and smokiness, tailoring it to your personal preference.
Protein Options: Try shredded turkey, ground beef, or even plant-based substitutes if you want to switch up the protein. Each option brings its own character to the dish, keeping the meal fresh and exciting.
Herb Garnish: Finish with fresh cilantro or parsley for brightness and aroma. Adding a sprinkle of herbs right before serving can elevate the dish visually and taste-wise!

Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Perfect Shredding: Shred the chicken while it’s still warm for the best texture. This makes it easier to pull apart and allows it to soak up the flavors in the sauce.
Cheese Choice: Experiment with cheese blends! Mixing sharp cheddar with gouda or pepper jack can elevate your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to new heights.
Pasta Cooking: Avoid overcooking your pasta; it should be al dente. This prevents the macaroni from becoming mushy when baked with the cheese sauce.
Flavor Enhancement: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Adjust the garlic and onion powder to your taste. A pinch of smoked paprika can also deepen the BBQ flavor.
Reheating Tips: Gently reheat leftovers on the stove with a splash of milk. This keeps your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese creamy and prevents it from drying out.

Proper Storage for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture and delicious flavor of your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date for easy tracking!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your frozen BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Preventing Dryness: Always cover the dish while reheating to trap moisture and keep that indulgent texture intact.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for boneless, skinless breasts that are firm and have no dark spots. Fresh BBQ sauce should have a balanced sweetness and not be too watery. For the cheeses, choose blocks over pre-shredded varieties to avoid additives that affect melting. Fresh pasta is always a nice touch, but box varieties will perform just fine.

What’s the best way to store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Very! Store your leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a terrific option too. Make sure to portion it into airtight bags or containers; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just label those bags with the date so you know when to use them!

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the dish cool to room temperature, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Press out as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, and then reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to keep it creamy!

What if my cheese sauce isn’t mixing properly?
Oh, don’t worry! If your cheese sauce seems lumpy or doesn’t mix well, it’s likely that the cheese wasn’t fully melted. Try removing the pan from heat and whisk continuously. If it still resists, you can add a little more warm milk gradually while whisking to help create a silky texture. Remember, low and slow is the way to go for melting cheese!

Are there any dietary considerations when making BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes! This dish typically contains dairy and gluten, so those with allergies need to be cautious. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pasta and ensure your BBQ sauce is also gluten-free. Substitute with dairy-free cheese and almond milk for a lactose-free version as well. And always check your BBQ sauce label for any hidden allergens!