There’s something incredibly comforting about combining two favorites into one irresistible dish—like this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. As a baker who’s always experimenting with warm, hearty flavors, I love how this recipe brings together the creamy richness of traditional mac and cheese with the bold, smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken. It’s my go-to comfort food, especially when I want to serve something satisfying yet a little unexpected.
What makes this dish so special is the balance it strikes: the velvety cheese sauce wraps every noodle in richness, while the tender chunks of BBQ chicken add a kick of flavor and protein that turn a side dish into a full meal. It’s not just about throwing cheese and pasta together—it’s about layering taste, texture, and warmth in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, feeding the family, or prepping for a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to please.
One of my favorite things about BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is how customizable it is. You can use leftover grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even freshly cooked chicken breast tossed in your favorite BBQ sauce. Plus, it’s easy to tailor the level of cheesiness or spice depending on your preferences. I like to add a touch of paprika and garlic powder for depth, and sometimes a handful of chopped green onions on top for a little freshness and crunch.
If you’ve never tried this combination before, get ready for a dish that’s rich, creamy, smoky, and a little bit sweet—all at once. It’s a recipe I keep coming back to because it brings people together around the table with its familiar ingredients and bold flavor.
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
To craft this flavorful, creamy, and smoky BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Each one plays a role in balancing richness with tangy barbecue flair.
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Macaroni Pasta – Elbow macaroni is classic, but any short pasta like penne or shells will work. It’s the perfect base to hold all that cheesy goodness.
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Cooked Chicken – Use about 2 cups of shredded or chopped cooked chicken. Grilled or rotisserie chicken works great. Toss it in your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor.
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BBQ Sauce – Choose a thick, flavorful BBQ sauce. Sweet and smoky varieties complement the cheese well. Make sure it’s alcohol-free and suits your taste.
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Butter – A small amount of unsalted butter forms the base of the cheese sauce, adding richness and a smooth texture.
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All-Purpose Flour – Flour helps thicken the cheese sauce. Combined with butter, it creates a roux that gives the sauce body.
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Milk – Use whole milk or 2% milk to keep the sauce creamy. Avoid skim milk, as it might result in a thin texture.
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Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar melts well and provides that classic mac and cheese flavor. You can mix it with mozzarella for extra stretch or use a bit of Monterey Jack for added smoothness.
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Paprika – Adds color and a subtle smokiness to complement the BBQ chicken.
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Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor of the sauce without overpowering it.
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Salt and Pepper – To taste. Start light and adjust once the cheese is melted and blended.
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Green Onions (optional) – For garnish. These add a burst of color and a fresh, slightly tangy finish.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps. With a little prep and a bit of stirring, you’ll have a hearty, mouthwatering dish that’s ready to serve.
Step 1:
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. While the pasta is cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to bake the dish after assembling.
Step 2:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s fully melted, whisk in the flour. Stir constantly for about 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a smooth roux.
Step 3:
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously. Cook the mixture for 3–4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and starts to bubble. This forms the base of your cheese sauce.
Step 4:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5:
In a large bowl or pot, combine the cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and BBQ chicken. Mix until everything is well-coated. If desired, drizzle in a little more BBQ sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 6:
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for a golden crust, then bake for 15–20 minutes until the top is bubbly and lightly browned. You can also skip baking and serve it directly from the stove for a quicker version.
Step 7:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh finish. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, smoky satisfaction in every bite.
How Long to Bake BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
The baking time depends on how you prefer your mac and cheese. If everything is already cooked and you’re just baking to meld flavors and crisp the top, it doesn’t take long at all. Here’s a guide to help:
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Unbaked Version (just assembled): Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes. This gives it a golden top and helps everything meld together.
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Prepared Ahead and Chilled: If you’ve made it in advance and stored it in the fridge, increase the baking time to 25–30 minutes. Make sure it’s heated all the way through before serving.
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Want a Crusty Top? Add a handful of shredded cheese on top or even some seasoned breadcrumbs (optional), then broil for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
Keep an eye on the top—it should be bubbling and lightly browned. That’s when it’s perfect.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese are a treat on their own. With the right storage, the dish stays delicious for days. Here’s how I keep mine fresh:
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Refrigerator: Let the mac and cheese cool completely. Then transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
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Freezer: For longer storage, portion the dish into individual servings, wrap in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Getting it just right is all about small adjustments and personal touches. Here are my go-to tips to elevate this dish every time:
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Use Firm Pasta: Choose pasta that holds up well to baking and stirring. Elbow macaroni is classic, but rigatoni or rotini also work great and grab onto the sauce nicely.
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Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Shredding your own cheese gives a creamier sauce.
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Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente (a minute or two less than the package suggests), especially if you plan to bake the dish. This prevents it from becoming too soft.
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Choose the Right BBQ Sauce: A thicker sauce with a balance of smoky and sweet works best. Avoid overly runny sauces that can thin out your cheese blend.
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Make It Spicy (If You Like): For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicy BBQ sauce. Just a little can make a big difference without overpowering the cheese.
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Balance the Flavors: If the BBQ sauce is very sweet, consider using extra-sharp cheddar or a dash of mustard powder to add contrast.
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Add a Crunchy Topping (Optional): A layer of seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed turkey bacon can add a crisp texture on top without affecting the creaminess below.
Mastering this dish is really about finding your favorite balance of smoky, cheesy, and hearty. Once you do, you’ll want to make it again and again—just like I do.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred it and mix it with your favorite BBQ sauce. It brings in extra flavor and saves cooking time. Make sure it’s heated thoroughly when baking the dish.
2. What type of cheese is best for mac and cheese?
I recommend using a combination of cheeses for the best flavor and texture. Sharp cheddar melts smoothly and adds depth, while mozzarella gives that gooey stretch. A bit of cream cheese can also make the sauce extra rich and velvety. Avoid cheeses that don’t melt well, like pre-grated varieties with additives.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble everything ahead and store it in the fridge, tightly covered, for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just bake it a bit longer—about 25–30 minutes at 375°F (190°C)—until it’s heated through and the top is bubbling. It’s perfect for busy evenings or meal prep.
4. How can I make this dish healthier?
To lighten things up, consider using whole wheat or chickpea pasta, low-fat cheese, and a lighter BBQ sauce. You can also reduce the amount of cheese slightly or use a mix of strong-flavored cheeses so you need less. Swapping in grilled chicken breast and adding some sautéed veggies like bell peppers or spinach can boost nutrition without sacrificing taste.
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food fusion—rich, creamy, cheesy pasta meets smoky, tangy barbecue chicken. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, game nights, or any time you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal. With just the right balance of flavors and a golden-baked finish, this dish is guaranteed to please.
Ingredients
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2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
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1 ½ cups shredded cooked chicken
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½ cup BBQ sauce (thick and smoky preferred)
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups milk
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1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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¼ cup cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
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Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
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Slowly add milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cheese sauce, shredded chicken, and BBQ sauce. Mix until well coated.
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Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top and sprinkle extra cheese if desired.
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Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly golden.
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Remove from oven, garnish with parsley if using, and serve warm.
Notes
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Use rotisserie chicken for a fast and flavorful option.
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Add diced vegetables or a pinch of cayenne pepper for variety and extra flavor.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk.
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You can freeze individual portions for up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes