BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting twist on the classic, combining smoky, tangy barbecue chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta. This dish is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

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)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 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. Step 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. Step 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. Step 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. Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Step 7: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra smoky flavor, try adding a dash of chipotle powder or smoked cheese.
• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add more depth of flavor.
• Swap elbow macaroni for shells or cavatappi for a fun pasta shape.
• Mix in sautéed onions or bell peppers for added texture and sweetness.

Storage

Store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the BBQ chicken and cheese sauce up to a day ahead, then combine everything just before serving to keep it fresh and creamy.

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely. Pulled pork or cooked sausage can be great alternatives for a different twist on the flavors.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 142 reviews

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender shredded chicken tossed in smoky BBQ sauce with creamy cheddar and mozzarella cheese sauce, all mixed with perfectly cooked macaroni. It’s a flavorful twist on classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a hearty weeknight meal.

• Author: Felix
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Sauce

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Pasta and Cheese Sauce

• 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)

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
2. Warm the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded cooked chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
3. Combine Chicken and BBQ Sauce: Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the chicken in the skillet. Mix thoroughly to evenly coat the chicken with the sauce and spices.
4. Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Mix Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring well to ensure the pasta is fully coated with the cheesy mixture.
6. Combine with BBQ Chicken: Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the cheese-coated pasta, stirring continuously until the ingredients are well combined and heated through.
7. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the mac and cheese and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a touch of color and freshness.

Notes

• For a smokier flavor, consider adding a bit more smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce mixture.
• Use low-fat milk for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
• Feel free to swap elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like shells or penne.
• This dish can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
• To add extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top and bake for 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) if desired.

Keywords: BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, comfort food, macaroni and cheese, BBQ chicken recipe, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, weeknight meal