Easy Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe for Dinner Wins

Creamy mac and cheese takes an unexpected turn with bbq chicken mac and cheese.

Smoky flavors dance across tender pasta shells, creating a mouthwatering fusion.

Comfort meets bold barbecue-inspired notes in this hearty dish.

Juicy chicken pieces add protein and depth to the classic recipe.

Melted cheese creates a luxurious backdrop for tangy sauce swirls.

Bold spices kickstart a flavor adventure that feels like summer cookout magic.

BBQ Chicken Mac And Cheese That’s Ultimate Comfort

• Speedy Weeknight Winner: Whip up this delicious mac and cheese in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families craving a quick, satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy BBQ sauce, smoky spices, and melted cheese creates an irresistible taste that elevates classic mac and cheese from ordinary to extraordinary.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty dish that transforms traditional mac and cheese into a protein-packed meal with juicy chicken and bold BBQ flavors.
• Versatile Meal Option: Easily adapt the recipe by using different BBQ sauces, trying alternative cheeses, or adding extra vegetables for a personalized touch that keeps the meal exciting and fresh.

Chicken and Pasta in BBQ Mac and Cheese

Main Ingredients:

• Pasta: The base of the dish, providing a comforting and hearty foundation for the mac and cheese.
• Shredded Chicken: Protein-packed protein that adds substance and flavor to the recipe.

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and tangy cheese that creates a rich, creamy sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Mild cheese that adds smooth melting texture to the sauce.
• Milk: Helps create a creamy, smooth cheese sauce base.

• BBQ Sauce: Adds a smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor to the chicken and overall dish.
• Olive Oil: Helps cook and warm the chicken with a light, neutral taste.
• Garlic Powder: Provides a subtle, aromatic flavor enhancement.
• Onion Powder: Adds depth and savory notes to the dish.
• Smoked Paprika: Introduces a smoky, slightly spicy undertone.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance the overall flavor.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herb flavor to the finished dish.

BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Instructions

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions.

Drain completely and set pasta aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add shredded chicken and cook until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Season Chicken

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir thoroughly to coat chicken completely.

Step 4: Create Cheese Sauce

Warm milk in a saucepan over medium heat.

• Cheddar cheese
• Mozzarella cheese

Whisk continuously until cheese melts and sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Pour cheese sauce over cooked pasta and mix well.

Gently fold in BBQ chicken mixture until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Taste the mac and cheese and adjust seasonings if needed.

Add extra salt or pepper to enhance flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Transfer to serving dishes.

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

BBQ Mac Tips For Chicken Harmony

• Marinate chicken in BBQ sauce for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the depth and richness of the meat's taste.
• Grate cheese yourself instead of using pre-shredded to ensure a smoother, more creamy sauce without anti-caking agents.
• Rinse pasta with cold water after draining to stop cooking and prevent sticking, helping each noodle stay separate and saucy.
• Adjust BBQ sauce and spices according to personal preference – use mild sauce for kids or add hot sauce for extra kick.
• Store in airtight container for up to 3 days, adding a splash of milk when reheating to restore creamy texture and prevent dryness.

BBQ Mac Stored Creamy for Round Two Meals

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the mac and cheese fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled mac and cheese to a freezer-safe container, protecting it for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creamy texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.

Bold Pairings For BBQ Mac

• Pairing Perfect Crisp Craft Beer: Select a hoppy IPA with citrusy notes to cut through the rich, creamy mac and cheese while complementing the smoky BBQ chicken flavors.
• Refreshing Citrus Salad Side: Create a light tangy green salad with orange segments, mixed greens, and a zesty vinaigrette to balance the heavy, indulgent main dish.
• Crunchy Coleslaw Companion: Prepare a classic coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing to provide a crisp, acidic contrast against the creamy, saucy mac and cheese texture.
• Cool Cucumber Pickles: Serve quick-pickled cucumber slices on the side to add a refreshing, tangy crunch that cuts through the richness and provides a palate-cleansing element.

BBQ Mac and Cheese Twists

• Vegetarian Comfort: Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower or smoked tofu, keeping the BBQ sauce and cheese sauce for a plant-based version.
• Gluten-Free Delight: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure BBQ sauce is gluten-free, maintaining the creamy cheese base and spicy flavors.
• Spicy Southwest Spin: Add diced jalapeños, swap BBQ sauce for chipotle sauce, and sprinkle pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, keeping the protein and cheese sauce intact for a lighter meal.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells. Just ensure the pasta can hold the cheesy sauce well.

• Is it possible to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or use a spicy BBQ sauce to kick up the heat. You can also include diced jalapeños for extra spice.

• What if I don't have fresh chicken?

No problem. Use rotisserie chicken, canned chicken, or leftover grilled chicken. Just shred or chop the chicken before mixing with BBQ sauce.

• Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dish and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.8 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comfort meets Southern charm in this epic BBQ chicken mac and cheese, where creamy pasta mingles with smoky, tender chicken. Tangy barbecue sauce and melted cheese create a soulful dish that promises pure culinary happiness for you.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded

Cheese:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Pasta and Additional Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
• 1 cup milk (low-fat preferred)
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta according to package guidelines, ensuring al dente texture, then drain and reserve.
2. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium temperature, introducing shredded chicken and gently heating for 2-3 minutes.
3. Infuse the chicken with flavor by thoroughly coating it with BBQ sauce, integrating garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly distributed.
4. Create a creamy cheese foundation by gradually heating milk in a separate saucepan, then slowly incorporating cheddar and mozzarella cheese while continuously stirring until transforming into a silky, uniform sauce.
5. Merge the cooked pasta into the molten cheese sauce, ensuring complete coverage, then delicately introduce the seasoned BBQ chicken mixture, blending thoroughly to create a harmonious combination.
6. Sample the mac and cheese, refining the flavor profile by adjusting salt and pepper according to personal preference.
7. Transfer to serving dishes, presenting the robust, tangy meal while maintaining optimal temperature, with optional fresh parsley garnish for enhanced visual appeal and subtle herbal notes.

Notes

• Opt for whole wheat pasta to boost fiber and nutritional value, creating a healthier version of this indulgent dish.
• Experiment with different BBQ sauce styles like smoky, sweet, or spicy to customize the flavor profile and match personal preferences.
• Use rotisserie chicken as a time-saving alternative, which adds extra richness and cuts down on cooking preparation.
• Consider low-fat cheese options or plant-based cheese substitutes for a lighter, dairy-free adaptation that maintains delicious taste and creamy texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 575
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg