Picture this: a hectic weeknight rolls in, and the last thing you want to do is settle for takeaway yet again. That’s when I discovered a delightful solution in my kitchen—BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. The first time I whipped up this dish, the combination of tender, juicy chicken enveloped in creamy, cheesy pasta was an absolute game-changer. The bold barbecue flavor transformed a classic comfort food into something exciting and vibrant.
This dish is not only indulgent but also quick to prepare, making it a perfect centerpiece for busy family dinners or playful gatherings with friends. Whether you prefer it creamy and cheesy or want to spice things up with some jalapeños, the possibilities are endless. Let me guide you through this simple yet satisfying recipe that brings a smile to everyone’s face and transforms any meal into a cherished occasion. Grab your apron and let’s dive into this flavorful adventure together!
Why will you love BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Comforting and Familiar: This dish brings together beloved flavors, combining BBQ sauce and cheesy macaroni for a comforting experience everyone loves.
Quick Preparation: Ideal for busy weekday meals, this recipe can be on the table in under 30 minutes, allowing you to savor quality time with family or friends.
Customizable Delight: Whether you’re a fan of extra spice or prefer a milder option, you can easily tweak the recipe with your favorite ingredients, from different cheeses to adding veggies.
High-Protein Goodness: Packed with tender chicken, each bite offers a satisfying source of protein that keeps you full and energized.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is sure to impress guests, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.
For more delicious ideas, take a look at quick family meals.
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – A tender protein source; for a quicker option, use rotisserie chicken.
For the Pasta
• Macaroni – Elbow macaroni holds the sauce well; feel free to substitute with penne or rotini for variety.
For the Cheese Sauce
• Cheddar Cheese – Adds a rich, sharp flavor; swap with gouda for a fun smoky twist.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Provides gooeyness; low-moisture mozzarella or pepper jack can be used for a spicy kick.
• Milk – Forms the creamy base; substitute with heavy cream for added richness or almond milk for a non-dairy option.
• Butter – Enhances richness; can be replaced with olive oil for a lighter version.
• Flour – Thickens the sauce; use cornstarch for a gluten-free alternative.
For Seasoning
• Garlic Powder – Boosts savory depth; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Onion Powder – Complements garlic powder and enhances flavor; optional based on preference.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for taste; adjust these to achieve a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
For Flavor
• BBQ Sauce – Gives the dish its signature BBQ flavor; choose your favorite kind—sweet, smoky, or tangy!
Embrace the comfort of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that’s easy to prepare and packed with delightful flavors!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
-
Cook the Chicken: Season boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sauté in olive oil over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Shred the chicken using two forks for easy mixing.
-
Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, then add macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, ensuring they retain a bit of firmness.
-
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute, then gradually add milk, stirring constantly until it thickens—about 3-4 minutes.
-
Add the Cheese: Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until they melt and create a velvety sauce. Make sure it’s smooth and gooey, a sure sign of a great mac and cheese!
-
Combine Everything: Gently mix the cooked pasta and shredded chicken into the cheese sauce. Stir in the BBQ sauce until everything is evenly coated, creating that signature flavor.
-
Serve: Dish up your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hot. For an extra touch, garnish with more BBQ sauce or fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Optional: Drizzle some extra BBQ sauce on top for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time on busy weeknights! You can cook the chicken and pasta up to 24 hours in advance; simply sauté and shred the chicken, then store it alongside the cooked pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain the dish’s creamy texture, prepare the cheese sauce and mix it with the chicken and pasta no more than 3 days before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting meal, reheat everything on the stovetop over low heat and stir in a splash of milk to bring back that creamy goodness. You’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready in minutes!
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Imagine pairing your comforting dish with sides that elevate the experience and create a memorable meal.
-
Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread perfectly complements the creamy mac, soaking up all that cheesy richness.
-
Coleslaw: A bright, tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the decadence of the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini offer a nutritious, colorful addition, enhancing both texture and flavor balance.
-
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn on the cob brings a saccharine crunch that pairs harmoniously with smoky BBQ notes.
-
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a tangy dressing can cut through the richness, making every bite of mac feel lighter.
-
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade can cleanse the palate, perfectly complementing the flavors of the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
-
Fruit Salad: A light, sweet fruit salad can be a delightful counterpoint, refreshing your taste buds between indulgent bites.
-
Baked Beans: Classic baked beans add a hearty, sweet flavor that complements the smoky profile of the BBQ sauce.
-
Apple Pie: For dessert, a warm slice of apple pie serves as a classic ending, balancing savory with sweet in the most delightful way.
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Variations
Get ready to unveil a world of delicious possibilities with your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese!
- Beefy Delight: Swap chicken for shredded beef for a hearty twist that adds a rich, savory flavor.
- Veggie-Packed: Keep it vegetarian by loading in sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for added nutrition and vibrant colors.
- Cheesy Fusion: Experiment with a mix of cheeses; try mascarpone for creaminess and pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Bacon Crunch: Fold in crispy bacon bits or use them as a topping for that irresistible smoky crunch in every bite.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free macaroni or chickpea pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery flavor that elevates this comforting dish.
- Creamy Spin: Replace milk with heavy cream for a decadently rich cheese sauce that is sure to please the senses.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro before serving to brighten the dish and add an aromatic depth.
With these variations, your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese can adapt to any palate or preference, turning a simple meal into a culinary adventure!
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Freezer: Freeze in a well-sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a little milk or water to help the cheese sauce regain its creamy consistency. Heat slowly on low to prevent burning.
- Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time and refrigerate before baking. Bake when ready for an even fresher taste!
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
-
Chicken Choice: Opt for boneless, skinless breasts for tenderness. Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds great flavor.
-
Sauce Consistency: Gradually add milk to prevent lumps in the cheese sauce. Stir continuously until smooth and creamy for the best results.
-
Pasta Perfection: Cook macaroni just until al dente. This ensures the pasta holds up when mixed with the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese sauce.
-
BBQ Sauce Variety: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces. Mixing sweet and smoky varieties can elevate the flavor profile even more.
-
Garnish Wisely: For a pop of freshness, add chopped herbs or an extra drizzle of BBQ sauce right before serving. It enhances both the look and flavor!
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they cook quickly and remain tender. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is an excellent alternative; just shred it and toss it into the mix—no fuss!
What’s the best way to store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Very! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to revive the creaminess. This keeps it from drying out and makes it just as delightful as when first made!
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Definitely! To freeze, transfer the dish into a well-sealed container; it will stay fresh for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy, slowly heat it on low, adding a bit of milk or water to maintain that gooey cheese texture.
What if the cheese sauce gets lumpy?
Oh no! If you notice lumps in your cheese sauce, don’t worry. Simply whisk the sauce vigorously over low heat until the lumps dissolve. If it’s still too lumpy, you can try straining it for a smoother finish. Remember to add milk gradually while whisking; this helps keep it silky!
Is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese suitable for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free option, you can substitute regular flour with cornstarch to thicken your cheese sauce. If anyone has dairy allergies or prefers plant-based options, try non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, and swap the cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a delicious, creamy taste.
What kinds of BBQ sauce should I choose?
The more the merrier! You can customize the flavor by choosing your favorite BBQ sauce—whether it’s sweet, smoky, or tangy. Mix different styles for a unique twist. I often enjoy a combination of sweet and smoky for a perfect balance that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: Comfort Food Bliss in Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sauté in olive oil over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Shred the chicken using two forks.
- Boil salted water in a large pot, add macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute, then gradually add milk, stirring constantly until it thickens—about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until they melt and create a velvety sauce.
- Gently mix the cooked pasta and shredded chicken into the cheese sauce. Stir in the BBQ sauce until everything is evenly coated.
- Dish up your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hot. Garnish with more BBQ sauce or fresh herbs.