When the weekend rolls around and the scent of smoky BBQ lingers in the air, there’s one dish that instantly comes to mind—BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Imagine a plate filled with creamy, cheesy pasta embracing tender pieces of juicy chicken, all beautifully infused with tangy barbecue flavors. It’s comfort food at its finest, and let’s be honest: who doesn’t crave that as a cozy weeknight meal or a quick gathering favorite?
This recipe is not only a delightful fusion of familiar flavors but also an effortless way to bring a little BBQ magic to your kitchen in under 30 minutes. With customizable options to suit your taste—from sweet to smoky BBQ sauces and a variety of cheeses—this dish promises to impress everyone at the table without the stress of elaborate cooking. Gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a creamy, protein-packed dish that redefines mac and cheese!
Why is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Special?
Deliciously Indulgent: This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese takes comfort food to the next level, blending creamy cheese with smoky, tender chicken.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying without the fuss.
Customizable Flavors: Adapt the recipe with your favorite BBQ sauce and cheese combinations for a personal touch.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will love this hearty dish—adults and kids alike!
High-Protein Boost: With boneless chicken included, enjoy a nutritious meal packed with protein that keeps you energized throughout the day.
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Tender protein that soaks up BBQ flavor; for convenience, rotisserie chicken works well.
For the Pasta
- Macaroni – Acts as the base for the creamy cheese sauce; can substitute with other short pasta shapes like penne or rotini.
For the Cheese Sauce
- Cheddar Cheese – Adds rich, sharp flavor and creamy texture; try Gouda or sharp white cheddar for a twist.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Contributes gooey meltiness; Fontina can be used for a different stretchiness.
- Milk – Creates a smooth, creamy sauce; whole milk is recommended but half-and-half adds extra richness.
- Butter – Enriches the sauce and aids in thickening; unsalted butter helps control the saltiness.
- Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce for a stable consistency; cornstarch is a great substitute for gluten-free options.
- Garlic Powder and Onion Powder – Enhance the flavors of the cheese sauce; adjust to taste.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing the dish’s flavors; add to taste.
For the Flavor
- BBQ Sauce – Provides the dish with smoky and tangy flavors; customize with your favorite type (sweet, smoky, tangy).
How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
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Cook Chicken: Season your boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Sauté them in olive oil over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked. Once done, shred with forks for easy mixing.
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Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
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Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Mix in 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk together for one minute. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while continuing to whisk. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine: Gently fold in the shredded chicken and cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Pour in ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce, stirring until everything is nicely coated.
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Serve: For an extra touch, drizzle a bit more BBQ sauce over the top. You could also garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
Optional: Top with crispy bacon bits for a delicious crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Fridge: Store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it remains fresh and creamy.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture. Stir well to combine.
Make-Ahead: Prepare this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time; it can be an easy, ready-to-heat meal for busy days!
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese are perfect for busy weeknights! You can cook the chicken and pasta up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To keep your dish fresh, ensure the cooked pasta is lightly coated with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also prepare the cheese sauce up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess. When you’re ready to enjoy your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, just combine everything, add the BBQ sauce, and bake until bubbly! With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a hearty meal with minimal effort whenever hunger strikes.
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
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Chicken Tips: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick option! It’s just as delicious and cuts down on cooking time.
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Pasta Choice: Avoid overcooking the macaroni. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the cheese sauce.
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite blend; pepper jack adds a spicy kick while gouda brings a unique creaminess.
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BBQ Sauce Selection: Choose a BBQ sauce that matches your flavor preferences—sweet, tangy, or smoky. This personalization can elevate your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
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Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk for optimal creaminess.
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Enhance your meal with delightful pairings that balance the rich flavors of creamy mac and cheese.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up cheesy goodness while adding a satisfying crunch.
- Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled seasonal vegetables provide warmth and texture, complementing the smoky flavors in your BBQ dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet, tender corn on the cob brings a bright pop of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy mac and cheese.
- Coleslaw: A tangy and crunchy coleslaw offers a nice contrast, cutting through the creaminess while adding a refreshing bite.
- Iced Tea: Refreshing iced tea with a hint of lemon balances the richness and ensures a delightful dining experience.
- Chocolate Brownies: End your meal on a sweet note with fudgy brownies, creating a delightful balance between savory and sweet.
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Variations
Get creative and make this recipe your own with some delicious twists and swaps!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cow’s milk and cheese with almond milk and vegan cheese for a lactose-free version.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or hot sauce to elevate the heat and give your mac and cheese a fiery flavor.
- Bacon Lover’s Delight: Top with crispy bacon bits before serving for an irresistible crunch that complements the creamy cheese.
- Veggie Boost: Replace the chicken with sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Pasta Twist: Use whole-grain macaroni or gluten-free pasta to adapt this dish to your dietary preferences without losing that comforting charm.
- Gourmet Explosion: Infuse the cheese sauce with truffle oil for an indulgent gourmet touch that transforms your mac and cheese into a fancy feast.
- One-Pot Wonder: Cook everything in one pot by adding the uncooked pasta directly to the cheese sauce and chicken, ensuring maximum flavor infusion.
- Southern Style: Add a splash of white vinegar and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to capture that tangy Southern BBQ flavor.
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I pick the best BBQ sauce for my mac and cheese?
Absolutely! Choose a BBQ sauce that complements your taste buds—whether you prefer sweet, smoky, or tangy flavors. A sweet BBQ sauce pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the cheese, while a smoky sauce can add an interesting depth. An easy way to personalize your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese!
What’s the best way to store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
For maximum freshness, store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just place the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container, where it will last for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to help restore its creamy texture.
What should I do if my cheese sauce doesn’t get thick enough?
Not a problem! If your cheese sauce seems too thin, continue to cook it on the stovetop over medium heat while whisking until it thickens. If you need an immediate fix, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold milk to create a slurry. Gradually whisk this into the sauce and continue cooking until it thickens—this is a great trick to salvage a runny sauce!
Can I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese healthier?
Very! You can lighten the dish by using whole grain pasta, lower-fat cheese, or even cauliflower pasta to reduce carbohydrates. Additionally, swapping in veggies like spinach or broccoli along with the chicken can give a nutritious boost to your meal while keeping the comfort food essence intact.
Is it safe for pets to eat BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
While BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious dish for humans, it’s best to keep it away from pets. Ingredients like garlic and onion powder can be harmful to dogs, and certain cheese varieties can upset their stomachs. If you want to involve your pets in mealtime, consider preparing a special pet-friendly dish just for them!
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sauté in olive oil over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Shred the chicken once cooked.
- Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot, add macaroni, and cook according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat, mix in 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk for one minute. Gradually add 2 cups of whole milk while whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Add ½ cup of BBQ sauce and stir to combine.
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce drizzled on top and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.