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.
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.
A reliable pasta shape that captures cheesy sauce in its curves, ensuring each bite is coated in gooey goodness.
Tender, shredded chicken soaks up the BBQ sauce, adding lean protein and a savory base to the dish.
The soul of this recipe: its tangy, sweet, and smokey notes transform ordinary mac and cheese into a bold comfort food masterpiece.
Melted down to create a smooth base for the roux, it offers rich flavor without the risk of over-salting.
Whisked into the melted butter to form a roux, it thickens the milk into a lusciously creamy sauce.
Contributes velvety texture and a hint of sweetness, balancing the sharp flavors of the cheeses.
Provides a robust, tangy depth that gives the sauce its signature dyed-in-the-wool cheesiness.
Delivers that satisfyingly stringy, melty stretch that keeps you coming back for more.
Simple seasonings that lift and refine every flavor in the sauce and chicken mixture.
Sprinkled on top, they bake to a crisp, golden-brown crust, adding delightful crunch.
Coats the breadcrumbs, helping them brown evenly and stay crisp under the oven’s heat.
A bright, herbaceous garnish that cuts through the richness and adds a fresh pop of color.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
Hello and welcome to my kitchen! I’m Anna Dubois a passionate home cook, recipe developer, and lover of rustic, wholesome meals made with heart. I grew up in the French countryside, where food was more than nourishment, it was a way to connect, to celebrate, and to create memories.