BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
This dish combines creamy, cheesy macaroni with tender BBQ chicken, creating the ultimate comfort food with a smoky-sweet twist. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent and satisfying.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes
Serves: 4–5
Ingredients
For the pasta & chicken:
3 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (grilled or rotisserie)
½ cup BBQ sauce
For the cheese sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (warm)
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup mozzarella cheese
¼ cup cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional topping:
½ cup shredded cheese (extra)
¼ cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
Cook pasta:
Boil macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Prepare BBQ chicken:
In a bowl, toss shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
Make cheese sauce:
In a large skillet or pot, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually add warm milk, whisking continuously until smooth and thickened.
Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese (if using) until melted.
Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Combine:
Add cooked pasta and BBQ chicken to the cheese sauce.
Mix until everything is well coated.
Optional bake:
Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve:
Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve warm.
Notes & Tips
Best cheese blend: Sharp cheddar gives bold flavor; mozzarella adds creaminess.
BBQ flavor: Use smoky or spicy BBQ sauce depending on preference.
Make it lighter: Use low-fat milk and reduce cheese slightly.
Add-ins: Try caramelized onions, jalapenos, or corn for extra flavor.
Creamier texture: Add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes! It’s perfect for saving time and adds great flavor.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes—assemble and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Reheat with extra milk to restore creaminess.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Add jalapenos, hot sauce, or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 500–600 kcal
Protein: 28–32 g
Carbohydrates: 40–45 g
Fiber: 2–3 g
Fat: 25–30 g
Sugar: 8–10 g
Sodium: 600–750 mg