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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Category: Cozy, Hearty Recipes That Feel Like Home

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of smoky and cheesy flavors. Tender shredded chicken, mixed with tangy BBQ sauce, combines seamlessly with creamy, melted cheeses and perfectly cooked pasta. It's a satisfying dish that balances comfort and protein, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish brings the heartiness of BBQ and the indulgence of mac and cheese together beautifully.

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Created By Melanie Carter
Updated on Tue, 22 Apr 2025 20:13:13 GMT
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Pin
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese | mellierecipes.com

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combines two beloved comfort foods into one irresistible dish. The smoky BBQ sauce infuses every bite of tender chicken, while the creamy cheese sauce coats each pasta piece perfectly. As a busy parent, I created this recipe when looking for ways to elevate basic mac and cheese into a complete meal that would satisfy both kids and adults.

This recipe became an instant hit in my household during a particularly hectic week when I needed something quick but satisfying. My teenagers now request it regularly, and I love that it's substantial enough to fuel their busy schedules.

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Pin
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese | mellierecipes.com

The smoked paprika is my secret ingredient here. I discovered its transformative power years ago when trying to recreate a restaurant dish my daughter loved. That warm, smoky note is what elevates this from standard mac and cheese to something truly special. My family can always tell when I try to skip it.

Make Ahead Tips

Ingredient Substitutions

Serving Suggestions

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta of your choice, such as penne or fusilli, depending on your preference.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

You can experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.

→ Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Yes, you can use shredded turkey, pulled pork, or even plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I add more flavor to this dish?

Try adding crispy bacon bits, sautéed onions, or a dash of hot sauce for extra depth and tanginess.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Smoky BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
15 minutes
Overall Cooking Time
25 minutes
Created By: Melanie Carter

Recipe Category: Comfort Food Classics

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Style: American

Result Amount: 4 Portions

Diet Preferences: ~

What You’ll Need to Make This

01 450g chicken breast, cooked and shredded
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 225g elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
04 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
05 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
06 1 cup low-fat milk
07 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
08 1 teaspoon garlic powder
09 1 teaspoon onion powder
10 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 Salt and pepper to taste
12 Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

How to Prepare

Step 01

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes to warm through.

Step 03

Stir in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken in the sauce.

Step 04

In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 05

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Then, fold in the BBQ chicken mixture and continue stirring until everything is well mixed.

Step 06

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 07

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Extra Tips

  1. You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
  2. For extra flavor, add a handful of crispy bacon bits or some sautéed onions.
  3. This dish is great for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Tools Required

  • Large skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Strainer or colander

Allergen Info

Review ingredients carefully for allergens. Reach out to your healthcare provider if you’ve got specific concerns.
  • Contains dairy (cheddar cheese and mozzarella).
  • Contains gluten (pasta).

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, this info is purely for reference and isn’t meant to replace dietary guidance.
  • Caloric Value: 500
  • Fat Content: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrate Content: 45 grams
  • Protein Content: 40 grams