BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is comfort food elevated to superstar status, blending creamy cheese sauce with smoky BBQ flavors in every forkful. The tender elbow macaroni holds onto that rich sauce, while juicy shredded chicken braised in tangy barbecue sauce adds a bold punch you won’t forget. Every bite feels like a warm hug, thanks to the combination of sharp cheddar melting into silky mozzarella. The breadcrumb topping sizzles to a golden crisp under the broiler, providing just the right contrast to the smooth interior. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or aiming to impress at a potluck, this baked dish delivers that crave-worthy satisfaction you remember from backyard BBQs.

I still remember serving this to a crowd of friends last summer: as soon as the timer hit zero, the kitchen filled with inviting scents of baked pasta and smoky sweetness. Conversations paused for a moment while everyone scooped up the first helping, eyes lighting up when that crunchy top gave way to molten cheese. From preparations in the saucepan to that final sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color, each step feels rewarding—and trust me, it tastes even better than it looks. Grab your apron and let’s dive into this intermediate-level recipe that clocks in at just under an hour from start to finish. With 20 minutes of prep, 30 minutes of cooking, and a quick five-minute rest, you’ll be unwrapping a tray of pure comfort food magic. And at around 600 calories per serving, it’s a hefty but oh-so-worth-it treat.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN BBQ CHICKEN MAC AND CHEESE

Every legendary dish starts with the right lineup of ingredients. For this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, we lean on classic pantry staples and simple, flavor-packed additions. Each component brings something unique to the table, from creamy texture to crispy topping and that unmistakable smoky barbecue kick.

• Elbow macaroni

A reliable pasta shape that captures cheesy sauce in its curves, ensuring each bite is coated in gooey goodness.

• Cooked chicken breast

Tender, shredded chicken soaks up the BBQ sauce, adding lean protein and a savory base to the dish.

• BBQ sauce

The soul of this recipe: its tangy, sweet, and smokey notes transform ordinary mac and cheese into a bold comfort food masterpiece.

• Unsalted butter

Melted down to create a smooth base for the roux, it offers rich flavor without the risk of over-salting.

• All-purpose flour

Whisked into the melted butter to form a roux, it thickens the milk into a lusciously creamy sauce.

• Whole milk

Contributes velvety texture and a hint of sweetness, balancing the sharp flavors of the cheeses.

• Sharp cheddar cheese

Provides a robust, tangy depth that gives the sauce its signature dyed-in-the-wool cheesiness.

• Mozzarella cheese

Delivers that satisfyingly stringy, melty stretch that keeps you coming back for more.

• Salt and pepper

Simple seasonings that lift and refine every flavor in the sauce and chicken mixture.

• Breadcrumbs

Sprinkled on top, they bake to a crisp, golden-brown crust, adding delightful crunch.

• Olive oil

Coats the breadcrumbs, helping them brown evenly and stay crisp under the oven’s heat.

• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

A bright, herbaceous garnish that cuts through the richness and adds a fresh pop of color.

HOW TO MAKE BBQ CHICKEN MAC AND CHEESE

Now that we’ve got our ingredients lined up, let’s walk through how to bring this cheesy, smoky wonder to life. From preparing the pasta to baking the final masterpiece, each step is straightforward but packed with flavor.

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Setting the right temperature early ensures an even bake and perfectly crisp topping once assembled.

2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until it’s al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Drain thoroughly and set aside so it doesn’t get soggy later.

3. In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Stir gently until each piece is fully coated and the mixture is heated through. Remove from heat and keep warm.

4. In a separate large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a light roux—this will thicken your sauce without any pasty taste.

5. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth. Continue to cook, stirring often, until the sauce begins to simmer and thicken, about 3–5 minutes.

6. Add both the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the thickened sauce. Stir until every strand of cheese is completely melted and the sauce is silky. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure each piece of pasta is fully coated in that luscious, golden mixture.

8. Transfer the mac and cheese into a large baking dish, smoothing the top. Evenly layer the BBQ chicken mixture over the pasta.

9. In a small bowl, toss the breadcrumbs with olive oil until well coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the dish to form a crispy crust.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until the breadcrumbs turn a deep golden brown and the edges are bubbling with cheese.

11. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then scoop out generous portions and serve hot.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BBQ CHICKEN MAC AND CHEESE

When it comes to serving BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, presentation and complementary sides can take this dish from fantastic to unforgettable. Whether you’re at a backyard cookout or cozying up indoors, these ideas will ensure every plate is a showstopper. Get creative with plating, balance the flavors with bright sides, and don’t forget to play with textures to elevate the overall experience.

• Pair with a crisp coleslaw: A tangy slaw made of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the cheesy casserole. Serve in small side bowls so guests can adjust the ratio to their liking.

• Serve in individual ramekins: Scoop the baked mac and cheese into oven-safe ramekins before baking. This not only adds a touch of elegance to each portion but also ensures everyone gets their own crispy topping and gooey interior.

• Drizzle extra BBQ sauce on top: Warm up some barbecue sauce and lightly drizzle it in a zigzag over each serving. The additional smoky-sweet glaze amps up the flavor and adds a glossy, appetizing finish.

• Add a side of garlic bread: Slice a fresh baguette, brush with garlic-herb butter, and toast until golden. The crunchy exterior and buttery garlic flavor complement the creamy pasta beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal.

HOW TO STORE BBQ CHICKEN MAC AND CHEESE

Storing leftovers properly ensures that your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese stays just as delicious the next day. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or saving half the tray for later, follow these tips to maintain that perfect balance of creamy sauce and crispy topping. Proper cooling, airtight containers, and the right reheating methods will keep everything tasting fresh.

• Refrigerator storage: Let the dish cool to room temperature before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring portions into airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, place individual servings in a microwave or oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

• Freezer storage: For longer storage, portion the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers, leaving a small gap at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and the breadcrumb topping re-crisps.

• Partial bake and store: If you plan to prepare the dish ahead of time, assemble everything except for the breadcrumb topping. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then add the breadcrumbs and bake directly from the fridge. This keeps the topping extra crisp.

• Re-crisping the topping: If the breadcrumbs lose their crunch after refrigeration, reheat the dish uncovered in a preheated oven at 400°F (205°C) for 5–7 minutes. This blasts them back to golden crispness without overcooking the pasta.

CONCLUSION

From the moment you gather your ingredients to that final forkful of cheesy, smoky goodness, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is designed to hit all the right comfort-food notes. It brings together tender chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and a velvety cheese blend, all crowned with a satisfyingly crunchy breadcrumb topping. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a personal treat, each step—from crafting the perfect roux to achieving the ideal al dente pasta—contributes to a dish that feels both familiar and special. With just about an hour in total prep and cooking time, plus a quick five-minute rest, you’ll have a cheery, crowd-pleasing meal on the table before you know it.

Feel free to print this article or save it to your favorite recipe collection for easy reference. You can also scroll down to find a handy FAQ section below to answer any lingering questions about the process or ingredients. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your comments, share your tweaks, or ask for any clarifications you might need. Happy cooking, and may your next dinner be filled with gooey cheese, savory chicken, and endless smiles around the table!

Print Recipe

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Author: Anna Dubois Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 30 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 55 mins

Calories: 600

Description

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a heavenly mix of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and smoky BBQ sauce, all baked to perfection with a crispy topping. It's comfort food at its best!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 pound of elbow macaroni

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

• 1 cup BBQ sauce

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• ¹⁄₄ cup all-purpose flour

• 3 cups whole milk

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• ¹⁄₂ cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken with 1 cup of BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is fully coated and heated through. Set aside.
4. In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute, creating a roux.
5. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Add the cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the sauce, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure the pasta is fully coated.
8. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a large baking dish. Top evenly with the BBQ chicken mixture.
9. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until the crumbs are well-coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the dish.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
11. Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Note

• Feel free to use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
• If you like it spicier, add a drizzle of hot sauce to the chicken before mixing with the BBQ sauce.
• This dish can be made ahead of time and baked the next day.
• Consider adding vegetables like broccoli or corn for extra nutrition.

Keywords: BBQ chicken, mac and cheese, comfort food, easy recipe, cheesy pasta, baked dish