BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food fusion, combining creamy, cheesy macaroni with smoky barbecue-flavored chicken. This crowd-pleasing dish is hearty, rich, and packed with bold flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines two classic comfort foods into one satisfying meal
• Easy to make with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
• Customizable with your favorite barbecue sauce and cheeses
• Great way to use leftover or rotisserie chicken
• Family-friendly and perfect for gatherings

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Barbecue sauce
• Elbow macaroni
• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Water
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

directions

this recipe

1. Cook the Chicken: Boil chicken breasts until cooked through, about 15–20 minutes. Let cool slightly, then shred and toss with barbecue sauce. Set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Cook for 1–2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
3. Add Liquid: Gradually whisk in milk, then water, until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cook Pasta: Stir in macaroni and cook, uncovered, for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
5. Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Combine: Fold in the barbecue chicken. Heat through and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6 to 8
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables or plant-based meat alternatives.
• Spicy twist: Use spicy barbecue sauce or add hot sauce or jalapeños.
• Cheese lovers: Mix in mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for extra depth.
• Baked version: Pour into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour alternatives for the roux.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it’s a great shortcut. Just shred and mix with barbecue sauce.

What kind of barbecue sauce should I use?

Any kind you like—sweet, smoky, spicy—it’s totally up to your taste.

Can I make it in advance?

Yes, it reheats well. Prepare the full dish, store in the fridge, and reheat before serving.

Can I bake it?

Absolutely. Top with more cheese and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more cayenne, use hot barbecue sauce, or stir in diced jalapeños.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very! You can tone down the spice and use a sweeter BBQ sauce for picky eaters.

Can I use other pasta shapes?

Yes, penne, shells, or rotini all work well.

How do I avoid the sauce becoming grainy?

Melt cheese on low heat and avoid overheating to keep it smooth and creamy.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely—try corn, spinach, or roasted peppers for extra nutrition.

What’s a good side dish?

Coleslaw, a green salad, or roasted veggies pair well with this rich dish.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a warm, cheesy, and smoky meal that’s simple to make yet loaded with flavor. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or starting from scratch, this comforting dish will quickly become a household favorite. Perfect for casual dinners or feeding a hungry crowd, it’s a delicious twist on two American classics.

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