Irresistible BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe for Comfort

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine creamy, cheesy goodness blending with the smoky, tangy flavors of barbecued chicken. It’s the kind of dish that makes your taste buds dance and your heart sing with joy. If there’s ever a food that can turn a bad day into a good one, this is it. For more inspiration, check out this main dishes for dinner recipe.

This dish holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of summer cookouts with family, where laughter and mouthwatering aromas filled the air. Picture this: kids running around, adults flipping burgers, and me sneaking spoonfuls of this heavenly mac and cheese while trying not to get caught. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite of this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

I still remember my cousin’s reaction when I first served this at a family reunion; he declared it “life-changing” between mouthfuls!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious side dishes recipe.

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts will work well; adjust for larger groups if needed.

• BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce for maximum flavor impact.

• Pasta (Macaroni): Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to try other pasta shapes you love.

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, so don’t skimp on quality here.

• Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; low-fat options can be used but won’t be as rich.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over flavors in the dish.

• Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the cheese sauce perfectly.

• Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: These add depth; fresh garlic works too if you prefer!

• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning—don’t forget these little guys!

• Green Onions (optional): Chopped green onions make a fresh garnish that adds color and flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously before adding elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.

Sauté the Chicken: While pasta cooks, heat some oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually whisk in milk until thickened and bubbly.

Add Cheeses and Seasoning: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted into gooey perfection. Don’t forget to sprinkle onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for extra flavor.

Combine Everything Together: Drain cooked pasta and add it to the cheese sauce along with shredded BBQ chicken. Stir until everything is well-coated in cheesy goodness.

Bake for Extra Crispiness (optional): Transfer everything into a greased baking dish if desired. Top with more cheese or breadcrumbs for an extra crispy finish before baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.

With these steps completed, you’ll have yourself a stunning BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that delights everyone! Enjoy serving it hot from the oven while basking in compliments from happy diners!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, start by cooking the chicken first; then prepare your pasta while you create the cheesy sauce. This way, everything comes together seamlessly and stays warm.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese! Swap out chicken for pulled pork, add jalapeños for spice, or toss in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Cooking this dish always reminds me of a summer barbecue where everyone raved about the flavor combination. It became an instant family favorite, making every gathering feel special.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought BBQ sauce saves time and still adds great flavor.

What type of cheese works best in BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Sharp cheddar is ideal, but mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for extra creaminess.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with grilled veggies or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Print

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

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• Author: Doorecipes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting, creamy dish that combines the smoky flavors of barbecued chicken with rich, cheesy goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy it as a main course or a crowd-pleasing side at potlucks.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook elbow macaroni until al dente, following package instructions.
2. Sauté the chicken: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts, cook until golden brown on both sides, and then shred.
3. Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; stir in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened. Mix in cheddar cheese along with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine everything: Drain pasta and mix it with the cheese sauce and shredded BBQ chicken until well-coated.
5. Optional baking: Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes for added crispiness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking/Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added spice, include jalapeños or swap chicken for pulled pork. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk.