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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese – Creamy, Smoky, and Comfort Food Perfection

Few dishes bring comfort quite like BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. This recipe takes classic creamy mac and cheese and upgrades it with smoky barbecue flavor, tender shredded chicken, and melty cheese goodness. The result is a bold, satisfying meal that feels both familiar and exciting. Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or cozy nights at home, this dish combines the richness of cheese sauce with the savory sweetness of barbecue chicken. It’s easy to make, incredibly filling, and guaranteed to please both kids and adults. If you love comfort food with a twist, easy pasta dinners, and cheesy one-bowl meals, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese deserves a spot on your table.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • These ingredients create a perfect balance of creamy smoky, and savory flavors.
Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta
  • 1 lb chicken breast cooked and shredded
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
Garnish
  • Fresh parsley finely chopped

Equipment

  • Prepare these simple kitchen tools before starting:
  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet or saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Serving dish

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Warm the Chicken
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and stir gently for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
Step 3: Add BBQ Sauce
  1. Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken and stir until evenly coated. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently while preparing the cheese sauce.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
  1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the milk. Warm gently without boiling. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
  1. Gradually add the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
  1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated and creamy.
Step 7: Add BBQ Chicken
  1. Fold the BBQ chicken into the mac and cheese. Mix gently until everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
  1. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Stir well before serving again.
🥄 Variations
Try these easy ways to customize your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese:
Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
Extra Smoky: Increase smoked paprika slightly.
Baked Version: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
Veggie Boost: Add corn or sautéed onions.
Extra Cheesy: Add an additional ½ cup cheese.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shredded cooked chicken works perfectly.
What BBQ sauce works best?
Any smoky or sweet BBQ sauce pairs well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, reheat gently before serving.
Is this dish very smoky?
It’s balanced, with adjustable smokiness.
Can I freeze it?
Freezing is not recommended due to cheese texture.
Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes, shells or penne work well.
Why add mozzarella?
It adds stretch and creaminess.
Can I make it lighter?
Use reduced-fat milk and cheese.
Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely—mild and comforting.
What sides pair well with it?
Simple salads or roasted vegetables.
🏁 Conclusion
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese brings together everything we love about comfort food—creamy texture, cheesy richness, and smoky barbecue flavor. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, it’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a family favorite.
Whether served fresh off the stove or reheated the next day, this dish delivers bold flavor and cozy comfort in every bite.