Name: Irresistibly Cheesy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Consider using rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.); 1 cup BBQ Sauce (Choose your favorite style—sweet, smoky, or tangy.); 1 cup Milk (Whole milk preferred, or non-dairy options.); 2 tablespoons Butter (Adds richness.); 2 tablespoons Flour (Gluten-free flour can be used.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Adds depth of flavor.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Fresh can substitute.); to taste Salt (Essential for balancing flavors.); to taste Pepper (Essential for balancing flavors.); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Swap with gouda for a different twist.); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Consider using pepper jack for kick.); 2 cups Macaroni (Elbow macaroni recommended.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s a certain magic that happens when BBQ meets mac and cheese—a fusion of flavors that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. The first time I whipped up this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, I could hardly believe how easy it was to create such a comforting masterpiece. With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes on the clock, I took a classic comfort food and transformed it into something truly special, thanks to the smoky allure of BBQ sauce.

Imagine your loved ones gathered around the table, laughter mixing with the inviting aroma wafting through the air. This dish not only satisfies those cheesy cravings but also makes for a crowd-pleaser that can easily adapt to suit any taste buds. Whether you’re a busy parent looking to shake up weeknight dinners or a culinary enthusiast eager to impress guests, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ticks all the boxes. Ready to dive into this creamy, cheesy delight? Let’s get started!

Why is BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese a Must-Try?

Comfort, this dish blends everything we love about mac and cheese with robust BBQ flavors, creating an irresistible fusion. Quick and Easy: Whip it up in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights! Customizable: Whether you prefer spicy or mild, you can tweak the BBQ sauce to suit your taste. Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone from kids to adults will love this dish! Indulgent Texture: Enjoy creamy, gooey goodness that warms your soul. Serve it with a fresh salad or warm garlic bread for a complete meal!

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Ingredients

• Get ready to gather everything you need for an unforgettable meal!

For the Chicken
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Main protein source, tender and juicy; consider using rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
For the Sauce
BBQ Sauce – Flavor enhancer, gives the dish its signature tang; choose your favorite style—sweet, smoky, or tangy.
Milk – Creates a smooth, creamy sauce; whole milk is preferred for the best texture, but non-dairy options work too.
Butter – Adds richness and helps in sauce formation.
Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce, creating the perfect consistency; gluten-free flour can be used if necessary.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Add depth of flavor to the sauce; fresh garlic and onions can substitute if you prefer.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors.
For the Cheesy Goodness
Cheddar Cheese – Rich, sharp flavor, essential for the cheesy base; swap with gouda for a different twist.
Mozzarella Cheese – Contributes a gooey, melty texture; consider using pepper jack for an added kick.
For the Pasta
Macaroni – Provides the pasta base for creamy sauce absorption; elbow macaroni is recommended, yet any short pasta works beautifully.

Enjoy the process of putting together this delightful BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, prepared to comfort and please your family and friends!

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Cook Chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook each side for 6-7 minutes until they reach a safe internal temperature; then shred them with two forks.
Cook Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, usually around 7-9 minutes. Once done, drain and set aside.
Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the milk along with garlic and onion powder. Cook this mixture for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens nicely.
Add Cheese: Slowly stir in the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until they’re beautifully melted and combined. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine: Gently fold in the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and BBQ sauce into the cheese mixture, mixing until everything is well-coated and perfectly blended.
Serve: Dish out this creamy delight while it’s hot. Top it off with extra BBQ sauce or fresh herbs for a burst of flavor!

Optional: Sprinkle some chopped green onions or cilantro on top for an added freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the chicken and make the cheese sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The macaroni can also be cooked ahead of time; just toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and cheese sauce gently on the stove, mixing in the pasta and BBQ sauce until warmed through. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready with minimal effort, just as fantastic as when freshly prepared!

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Variations

Customize this comforting classic to make it uniquely yours and delightful to taste!

Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a flavorful meat-free option. The veggies add depth, keeping the satisfying texture.
Spicy Kick: Use a spicy BBQ sauce or mix in chopped jalapeños for an added layer of heat. This variation brings a bold twist that will definitely wake up your taste buds!
Cheese Medley: Swap your cheddar for gouda or fontina for a creamier texture and different flavor profile. Mixing cheeses can elevate your dish to new indulgent heights.
Pasta Alternatives: Change your macaroni to penne or fusilli for a fun twist. The different shapes will hold onto the sauce in unique ways, offering delightful bites of flavor.
Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free macaroni and use a gluten-free flour for the sauce. Everyone can enjoy this creamy classic without worry!
Smoky Addition: Introduce smoked paprika into your cheese sauce for an extra layer of smokiness that complements the BBQ flavors beautifully. It’s like adding a cozy campfire feel to each bite.
Creamier Sauce: For an ultra-rich experience, stir in a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone in the cheese sauce. This twist makes it decadently creamy, perfect for special occasions!
Topped Deluxe: Finish with a layer of crushed tortilla chips, breadcrumbs, or crispy onions before baking for a crunchy texture contrast. This topping variation adds a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy goodness!

Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps keep the flavors fresh and prevents the macaroni from drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and ensure they’re tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Make-Ahead: For convenience, assemble the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. This meal brings comfort and ease to busy nights!

Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Chicken Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken: It saves time while still delivering tender, flavorful chicken, making your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese even quicker to put together.
Cheese Mix: Don’t skimp on cheese: Combining cheddar and mozzarella enhances the flavor and texture—be sure to use quality cheese for the best results.
Sauce Consistency: Watch your sauce: If it seems too thick or dry, add a splash of milk while stirring to achieve the perfect creamy consistency in your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
Flavor Boost: Spice it up: For extra kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to elevate your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese to new heights.
Storage Savvy: Store leftovers correctly: Keep your dish in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheating gently to preserve its creamy texture without it drying out.

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Enhance your dinner experience with delightful pairings that will complement this creamy, smoky favorite.

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the cheesy goodness—you can’t go wrong with this classic side.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts add texture and a nutritious punch, balancing the sweetness of the BBQ sauce beautifully.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, cutting through the creamy mac, making every bite satisfying.
Cornbread: Serve with sweet cornbread to enhance the barbecue flavors—its slight sweetness is a lovely complement to the dish.
Fruit Salsa: A refreshing fruit salsa with mango or pineapple offers a sweet and tangy contrast, adding brightness to your plate.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refresh with a glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea; their zesty flavors will perfectly balance the richness of the meal.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies for a comforting dessert that everyone adores.

These pairings will not only elevate your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese but also create an inviting and memorable meal experience.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for my BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! For this dish, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness and ease of cooking. If you want to save time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic alternative—just shred it and toss it in!

How should I store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Very easy! Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container, and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh and prevent the macaroni from drying out.

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the dish cool completely. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring they are tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently to maintain the creaminess.

What should I do if my cheese sauce is too thick?
Don’t worry! If your sauce ends up too thick, just add a splash of milk while stirring. Gradually mix in the milk over low heat until you get that perfect creamy consistency. This little trick helps ensure your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese stays indulgently rich without being overly thick.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can use gluten-free flour for the sauce and substitute the cheeses with dairy alternatives. It’s an easy way to make this recipe friendly for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. Always be sure to check labels for potential allergens like nuts or soy in non-dairy products.

How long can I reheat BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese leftovers?
When reheating, you can enjoy your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese within 3 days of cooking. I suggest gently reheating it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to keep it creamy and delightful. Enjoy every comforting bite!