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This BBQ chicken mac and cheese combines two comfort food favorites into one irresistible dish. The tangy BBQ sauce and savory chicken transform traditional mac and cheese into something extraordinary that both kids and adults will devour.
I created this recipe one night when my picky eaters were refusing their dinner and I needed a guaranteed win. The combination of familiar mac and cheese with the BBQ chicken they love resulted in clean plates all around, and it has been in our regular rotation ever since.
Ingredients
- Cooked shredded chicken breast: A major time saver when using rotisserie chicken or leftovers
- Elbow macaroni: The classic shape that holds sauce perfectly in each bite
- Cheddar cheese: Provides that classic sharp flavor that makes mac and cheese instantly recognizable
- Mozzarella cheese: Adds the perfect stretchy texture when melted
- BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite brand but I recommend one with a balance of sweet and tangy notes
- Garlic and onion powder: These pantry staples add depth without the work of fresh aromatics
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the BBQ flavor
- Milk: Creates the creamy base for the cheese sauce look for whole milk for extra richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- Boil your pasta in heavily salted water until just al dente about one minute less than package directions. The pasta will continue cooking slightly when combined with the hot cheese sauce so slightly undercooking prevents mushiness.
- Prepare the BBQ chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat then add your shredded chicken. The brief sauté reawakens the flavor of precooked chicken before adding the BBQ sauce and seasonings. Make sure to coat each piece evenly with the flavorful mixture.
- Create the cheese sauce:
- Warming the milk before adding the cheese prevents the sauce from breaking. Keep the heat medium low and stir constantly as the cheeses melt into the milk. The sauce should be smooth and pourable but thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Combine everything:
- Gently fold the pasta into the cheese sauce ensuring each piece is coated. Then add the BBQ chicken mixture and continue folding until everything is evenly distributed. The heat should be low at this point to prevent scorching.
My absolute favorite part about this dish is how the smoky sweet BBQ sauce cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce. I discovered this combination years ago when my son accidentally dipped his mac and cheese into BBQ sauce at a barbecue restaurant, and his delighted reaction told me I needed to create a proper recipe combining these flavors.
Make Ahead Options
This BBQ chicken mac and cheese can be fully prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with a little extra cheese, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until hot and bubbly. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner ready with minimal effort.
Variations To Try
For a spicy version, use a chipotle BBQ sauce and add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. The heat perfectly complements the rich creaminess of the dish. You could also try a honey BBQ sauce for a sweeter profile or a Carolina mustard BBQ sauce for a tangy twist that works wonderfully with the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish stands perfectly on its own, but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete comfort food experience, serve alongside some buttery garlic bread for scooping up any extra sauce. At summer gatherings, I often serve this alongside traditional BBQ sides like coleslaw and cornbread for a crowd pleasing spread.
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Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different pasta shapes for this dish?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute any short pasta shape like shells, rotini, or penne. The key is choosing a pasta that holds the creamy cheese sauce well in its nooks and crannies.
- → What type of BBQ sauce works best?
You can use any BBQ sauce you enjoy. Sweet and smoky varieties complement the cheese well, while spicier options add a nice kick. The recipe is versatile enough to work with whatever style of BBQ sauce you prefer.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or choose a spicy BBQ sauce. You could also mix in some pepper jack cheese in place of some of the mozzarella for added spice.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate. When reheating, add a splash of milk and stir while warming to maintain creaminess. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
- → What sides pair well with BBQ chicken mac and cheese?
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with lighter sides like a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or cornbread also make excellent accompaniments to soak up the delicious sauce.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
While you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months, the texture of the cheese sauce may change slightly upon thawing. Reheat frozen portions with additional milk to restore creaminess, stirring frequently over low heat.