BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup that brings the best of both worlds to your table: the smoky-sweet tang of barbecue chicken and the dreamy, creamy richness of classic mac and cheese. Every bite is a parade of flavors and textures: tender, saucy chicken mingling with a blanket of melty cheeses and perfectly cooked pasta shells. If you love Southern flavors and crave a dish that’ll wow at weeknight dinners or game-day gatherings, this irresistible BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be surprised how a handful of familiar ingredients come together to make this dish such a showstopper. Each component is simple, yet totally essential for building layers of taste, personality, and that irresistible golden color.

• Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken for fast cooking and easy shredding. Their mild flavor soaks up all that barbecue goodness.
• Salt and pepper: These pantry staples awaken all the flavors in the chicken and mac, so don’t skimp!
• Chipotle powder: Adds just the right hint of smoky heat. Adjust more or less if you like things milder or bolder.
• Garlic powder: For a savory boost that ties the seasoning blend together.
• Oil: Just enough for a golden sear on your chicken—olive or vegetable oil works perfectly.
• Barbecue sauce: Pick your favorite brand or homemade; this brings signature sweetness and tang to your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
• Frank’s Red Hot or buffalo sauce (optional): For those who love a zesty kick in every bite. Totally customizable!
• Medium pasta shells: They capture cheesy sauce and bits of chicken in every nook—gluten-free varieties are great substitutes too.
• Butter: The start of that silky smooth cheese sauce—unsalted lets you control the flavor perfectly.
• All purpose flour: Whisked with butter to make a roux, it keeps the sauce ultra creamy and lump-free. Gluten free flour is absolutely fine!
• More salt, pepper, chipotle powder, and garlic powder: Extra rounds of seasoning ensure every layer is deeply flavorful.
• Milk (or chicken broth): The classic foundation of mac and cheese sauce. Use your preferred kind—dairy, non-dairy, or even more broth.
• Water (or more broth): Helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Shredded cheddar: The real cheese flavor champion—sharp cheddar is highly recommended for maximum punch.
• Pepper jack cheese: Gives your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese a subtle peppery kick and even more oozy, melty goodness.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts in half horizontally. This lets them cook faster and soak up even more flavor. Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, chipotle powder, and garlic powder. Heat a teaspoon of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken breasts for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until the thickest piece hits a juicy, safe 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest while you prep the rest of the recipe—this keeps it tender and easy to shred.

Step 2: Shred and Sauce the Chicken

Once the chicken has rested (even just two minutes makes a difference), shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Toss the chicken with barbecue sauce and optional buffalo sauce in a big bowl. Coat every piece—this is where your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese gets its lip-smacking, smoky signature flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your medium shells according to the package directions just until al dente—they’ll soak up more sauce later! Drain well and set aside. Save that pot for making your cheese sauce, so there’s less to clean up later.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot you used for the pasta, melt butter over medium-low heat. Sprinkle in your flour, whisking constantly for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth, golden roux. Now add your seasonings, pour in the milk (or broth), and keep whisking as you bring it to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat, then pile in the cheddar and pepper jack, stirring until the cheese melts into pure creamy bliss.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add your drained pasta right into the cheese sauce, followed by the saucy BBQ chicken. Stir everything together until thoroughly coated and irresistibly gooey. At this stage, you can serve it straight from the pot for maximum creaminess, or keep going to make a bubbly baked topping.

Step 6: Optional—Bake for Extra Flavor

To take your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to the next level, preheat your oven to 400°F. Scoop the mixture into a greased 9×9 casserole dish, then sprinkle extra cheddar over the top and add a drizzle of barbecue sauce. Bake for about 15 minutes until the top gets golden and bubbly—and your kitchen will smell like heaven. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro right before serving if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

The final flourish makes all the difference. Generous sprinkles of chopped cilantro or parsley brighten up the plate, while a few thinly sliced green onions add a savory pop. For a Southern touch, try a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or even a little more shredded sharp cheddar right on top. Let everyone add a dash of hot sauce for personalized heat!

Side Dishes

Since BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is already hearty and flavorful, pair it with simple sides that offer freshness and crunch. A bright green salad with tangy vinaigrette, crisp coleslaw, or even roasted veggies like broccoli or green beans are wonderful accompaniments. Warm dinner rolls or cornbread are perfect for soaking up every creamy bite, too!

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or game-day gatherings, serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a fun, shareable vibe. It also makes a fantastic filling for stuffed baked potatoes, or spooned into bread bowls for the ultimate indulgence. If you want a showstopper at a potluck, bring it in a big casserole and let folks dig in for seconds (and thirds!).

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days without losing its creamy richness—perfect for quick lunches or late-night snacks.

Freezing

Cool the dish completely, then freeze in single-serving or family-sized containers for up to three months. For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight so the sauce stays creamy. You may want to add a splash of milk or a little extra cheese when reheating to bring it back to its best.

Reheating

Gently reheat BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk as needed to loosen the sauce. If reheating a whole casserole, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until hot throughout. The flavors deepen even more the next day!

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Save time by shredding a store-bought rotisserie chicken, then tossing it with barbecue and buffalo sauce. You’ll still get all the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese flavor with less prep.

Is this recipe spicy?

The chipotle powder and buffalo sauce add a gentle kick, but the overall heat is pretty mild. For a spicier version, increase the buffalo sauce or add a pinch of cayenne. For mild palates, simply use less chipotle or skip the buffalo sauce altogether.

Can I make it gluten free?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten free pasta shells and replace all purpose flour with a gluten free blend. Choose a gluten free barbecue sauce as well, and you’ll get a deliciously creamy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese everyone can enjoy.

What’s the best barbecue sauce to use?

Go with your personal favorite! Sweet and smoky sauces are traditional, but spicy or tangy sauces totally change the personality of the dish. Homemade sauce or a good-quality bottled version both work wonders here.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Stir in sautéed bell peppers, caramelized onions, sweet corn, or even roasted broccoli for pops of color and nutrition. BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is endlessly customizable—make it your own!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something that’s as soul-satisfying as it is showstopping, make this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese your next kitchen adventure. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser packed with all the flavors we love and creamy enough to make any meal memorable. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite comfort dish!

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