If ever there was a dish that promised both big, bold flavor and pure, melty comfort, it’s BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. This is the kind of meal you’ll think about all day long—the one that blends smoky barbecue sauce, juicy chicken, creamy cheddar and mozzarella, and tender pasta into a bowl of pure happiness. Every bite is a little adventure, and whether you’re making it for a crowd or a quiet night in, this recipe’s hearty textures and eye-catching colors are bound to make it the star of your weeknight lineup.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh additions to bring BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to life. Each ingredient plays its own special role—bringing creaminess, tang, or a burst of color—to create a dish that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.

Elbow macaroni (12 ounces): This classic pasta shape is perfect for catching every drop of rich, cheesy sauce.
Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): Use rotisserie, leftovers, or make it fresh—this is your protein-packed foundation.
BBQ sauce (1 cup): The smoky, tangy sweetness infuses the chicken and ties the whole dish together.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Forms the first step of a velvety roux for the sauce.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the cheesy sauce perfectly without clumping.
Whole milk (2 cups): Adds creamy body and richness to the sauce—don’t skimp here!
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups): Delivers that classic mac and cheese bite and bold color.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts like a dream and gives the sauce its irresistible stretch.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Deepens the smoky character and amplifies the barbecue flavor.
Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Subtle but essential, for savory depth.
Salt and pepper to taste: A finishing touch to balance and enhance all the flavors.
Chopped fresh parsley (1/4 cup, for garnish): Brings a fresh, vibrant lift and a pop of green to every bowl.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it until just al dente—usually about 1 to 2 minutes less than the package suggests. Drain the pasta well and set it aside. Don’t rinse; you want all that gentle starch to help the sauce cling to every noodle.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a large skillet or saucepan set over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s gently bubbling. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly, cooking for 1–2 minutes, until you see the roux turn a light, golden color. Now, slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking to avoid any lumps. Continue stirring for about 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats your spoon.

Step 3: Stir in the Cheese and Spices

Once your sauce is lovely and thick, remove it from the heat. Add the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses in batches, stirring until they melt together into a smooth, glossy sauce. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. At this point, your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing!

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

Tip the cooked macaroni right into that pot of cheesy goodness. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every nook and cranny is coated with the creamy sauce. If things seem extra thick, a splash of milk can loosen it up.

Step 5: Add the BBQ Chicken

In a separate bowl, toss your prepared shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until every piece is glistening and thoroughly coated. Gently fold the saucy chicken into your mac and cheese, swirling lightly so you get beautiful ribbons of barbecue in every spoonful.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese into a large serving dish or portion into individual bowls. Shower with chopped fresh parsley. For extra flair, try crispy fried onions or a little extra smoked paprika before serving hot.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

The right garnish not only makes BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese look irresistible, but also adds some fresh flavor and contrast. A big sprinkle of chopped parsley is classic, but you can get creative—crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, or a light dusting of smoked paprika all up the ante. For crunch, try crispy fried onions just before serving.

Side Dishes

Balance out the richness of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with sides that bring lightness and crunch. Think crisp green salads with a tangy vinaigrette, simple steamed broccoli, or sweet buttery corn on the cob. Even a platter of sliced tomatoes or pickles works wonders to refresh your palate between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is half the fun! Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or scoop it into a hollowed-out bread bowl for extra heartiness. Kids love it baked into muffin tins for single-serve portions, while piling it high in a cast-iron skillet brings a rustic wow-factor to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese keeps beautifully in the fridge. Just transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and intensify as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

If you want to make a batch ahead or save some for another busy night, freezing is a fantastic option. Let the mac and cheese cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese again, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk to help regain that extra creaminess, stirring occasionally until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw first for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni holds onto the sauce beautifully, you can swap in shells, rotini, cavatappi, or any short, sturdy pasta shape you love. They’ll all mesh nicely with the creamy cheese and BBQ chicken.

What’s the best way to make shredded chicken for this recipe?

If you don’t have leftover chicken, the easiest method is to poach a couple of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs until tender, then shred with two forks. Rotisserie chicken is also a time-saving favorite for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You sure can! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour in the sauce. The result will be just as creamy and crowd-pleasing.

What if I prefer homemade BBQ sauce?

Homemade BBQ sauce will make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese even more special. Use your favorite family recipe or mix up a quick batch with ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices—the smokier, the better!

How can I add a little heat to this dish?

For those who love a kick, try stirring a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce into the cheese sauce. You can also toss a bit into the BBQ chicken or finish each serving with sliced jalapeños for a spicy pop.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that delivers a little joy to every forkful! It’s that perfect blend of homey, cheesy comfort and finger-licking barbecue flavor. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and see why it’s always a hit at my table. Happy cooking!

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy pasta with tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy BBQ sauce – a family favorite that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Mac and Cheese:

12 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

For the BBQ Chicken:

2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup BBQ sauce

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Instructions

Cook the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook until lightly golden. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and add cheddar, mozzarella, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
Combine: Stir in cooked pasta until coated. Toss shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl. Gently fold BBQ chicken into mac and cheese.
Serve: Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.