Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Indulge in creamy, smoky Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that’s packed with bold flavors and gooey melted cheese perfection. This dish brings together tender BBQ chicken, perfectly cooked macaroni, and a luscious cheese sauce that will quickly become your go-to comfort food. Its irresistible blend of textures and tastes makes it ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or whenever your taste buds crave something truly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate comfort food: This dish combines creamy mac and cheese with smoky BBQ chicken, offering a rich and cozy meal.
• Bold, balanced flavors: Tangy barbecue sauce meets smooth cheese sauce for a perfect harmony of taste.
• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s an easy recipe that pleases all palates.
• One-pot delight: Minimal cleanup and easy cooking steps make it stress-free and quick.
• Customizable: You can tweak ingredients to suit your preferred spice level, cheese types, or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh ingredients come together in this Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to create a dish bursting with flavor and creamy texture. Each element plays a crucial role, from the pasta’s al dente bite to the smoky BBQ chicken that adds a delightful depth.

• Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto cheese sauce beautifully.
• Cooked chicken breast or thighs: Tender and smoky, the star protein of this dish.
• Barbecue sauce: Choose your favorite—sweet, spicy, or smoky—to infuse the chicken with flavor.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it creates the perfect rich base for the cheese sauce.
• Monterey Jack cheese: Adds creaminess and a mild flavor to balance cheddar’s tang.
• Butter and all-purpose flour: The base for making a silky roux to thicken the cheese sauce.
• Milk: Whole milk or a mix of milk and cream for ultimate creaminess.
• Garlic powder and smoked paprika: Enhance the smoky BBQ profile and add subtle spice.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer perfectly.

Variations for Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Feel free to get creative and adapt this Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to suit your cravings or dietary needs. Swapping ingredients or adding extras is super easy and leads to delicious new twists.

• Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with grilled tofu or smoky roasted vegetables.
• Different cheeses: Try smoked gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with cornstarch or another gluten-free thickener.
• Bacon add-in: Crispy bacon bits mixed in or sprinkled on top elevate the smoky BBQ vibe.

How to Make Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Start by boiling the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce and chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the BBQ chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, warm the cooked chicken pieces with barbecue sauce until heated through and well coated. This allows the smoky BBQ flavors to soak into the chicken perfectly.

Step 3: Make the cheese sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk, continuing to whisk until thickened. Once thick, stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses along with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine mac, chicken, and sauce

Mix the cooked pasta and BBQ chicken into the cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is lavishly coated with that creamy, smoky goodness.

Step 5: Bake (optional)

For a golden crust, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle additional cheese or breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes until bubbly and slightly browned.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Choose quality cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother melt and richer flavor.
• Don’t overcook pasta: Slightly undercook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven or when mixed with hot sauce.
• Balance BBQ sauce sweetness: Adjust barbecue sauce quantity to avoid overpowering the cheese’s creamy texture.
• Use smoky spices: Smoked paprika and a pinch of chipotle powder add a deeper BBQ flavor without extra sauce.
• Rest before serving: Give the dish a few minutes after baking to set, making it easier to serve with perfect cheesy consistency.

How to Serve Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Top your Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with freshly chopped green onions, crispy fried onions, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to enhance both the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve with a simple leafy green salad, roasted vegetables, or crunchy coleslaw to add freshness and textural contrasts that complement the rich mac and cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this cheesy delight in individual ramekins for a fun twist or scoop it into a hollowed-out bell pepper or bread bowl for a unique and impressive presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

This dish freezes well; store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve the creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil or in a microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce needs loosening for perfect creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful shortcut that works perfectly in this recipe.

What type of barbecue sauce works best?

Use your favorite barbecue sauce, whether sweet, smoky, or spicy—just make sure it complements the cheese rather than overpowering it.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives and use non-dairy milk along with a suitable thickener for a vegan-friendly version.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese reheats well, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy days.

How can I make it spicier?

Incorporate diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the cheese sauce or BBQ chicken for an added spicy kick.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—rich, smoky, and irresistibly creamy. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this dish is a guaranteed hug on a plate. Dive in, customize it your way, and enjoy every gooey, flavorful bite!

Related Posts

• Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
• Creamy Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi
• Garlic Butter Beef Tortellini

Print