BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting twist on a classic favorite, combining smoky BBQ flavors with creamy, cheesy pasta. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

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)
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 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

• Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save preparation time.
• Add crispy bacon bits or sautéed onions for extra flavor and texture.
• Try using smoked cheddar cheese to enhance the smoky BBQ taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if the mac and cheese has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells, penne, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and increase the amount of cheese or add vegetables like roasted mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 73 reviews

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender shredded chicken smothered in tangy BBQ sauce with creamy, cheesy macaroni for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, it’s a delicious twist on classic mac and cheese with a smoky, savory kick.

• Author: Naya
• 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
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 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)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain 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 cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and slightly golden.
3. Add the BBQ Seasoning: Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into the chicken. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce and spices. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to blend flavors.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium heat. Gradually add the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring constantly until all cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overheat to avoid curdling.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated in cheesy goodness.
6. Incorporate BBQ Chicken: Fold the BBQ chicken mixture into the pasta and cheese sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and heated through.
7. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the mac and cheese and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Notes

• You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
• For extra flavor, add a handful of crispy bacon bits or some sautéed onions.
• This dish is great for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

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