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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Category: The Heart of the Meal

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese delivers comforting, creamy pasta with a savory twist. Succulent shredded chicken, seasoned with garlic, onion, and paprika, gets tossed in tangy barbecue sauce for bold flavor. Melty cheddar and mozzarella form a luscious cheese sauce that envelopes tender elbow macaroni. Everything is combined on the stovetop for a quick, hearty meal that’s sure to please the family. Garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy this satisfying blend of smoky, cheesy goodness—ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Try adding crisp bacon or sautéed onion for extra depth.

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Updated on Sun, 14 Sep 2025 13:10:54 GMT
A bowl of macaroni and cheese with chicken. Save
A bowl of macaroni and cheese with chicken. | sweetbyemma.com

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese layers smoky tangy BBQ flavors with ultra creamy cheese sauce and juicy shredded chicken for a high-protein weeknight dinner my family always begs me to make. It is my go-to when I want comfort with a boost of extra protein and everyone cleans their plate.

I first threw this together after a backyard cookout with leftover grilled chicken and now we crave it even when there is no BBQ left over.

Ingredients

  • Chicken breast cooked and shredded: gives the dish hearty texture and soaks up all the BBQ flavors Look for fresh chicken or use a juicy rotisserie chicken for ease
  • Olive oil: helps brown and warm the chicken Choose a fruity extra virgin olive oil if possible
  • Elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape: grabs hold of all the sauce Stick to traditional elbows or try shells for more pockets
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: gives a sharp rich taste Opt for block cheese and shred yourself for maximum melt
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese: brings gooey stretch to every bite Choose low moisture mozzarella for best texture
  • Milk: makes the cheese sauce velvety Rich low-fat milk adds creaminess without too much heaviness
  • BBQ sauce: adds smokiness and tang Use your favorite brand or homemade for extra personality
  • Garlic powder and onion powder: layer in savory depth Use fresh ground spices for boldest flavor
  • Smoked paprika: brings a subtle warmth and hint of smoke Choose Spanish smoked paprika for classic BBQ aroma
  • Salt and pepper to taste: round out the flavors Always taste and adjust to your liking
  • Fresh parsley optional for garnish: brings a bright color and freshness Snip some right before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until just al dente according to the package instructions Do not overcook so pasta holds up in the sauce Drain well and set aside
Warm the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add the shredded chicken and stir for two to three minutes to warm through and build flavor
Flavor the Chicken:
Stir in the BBQ sauce garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt and pepper Mix to coat every piece of chicken evenly in the tangy smoky sauce Let it bubble gently for a minute to develop flavor
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a separate saucepan heat the milk over medium heat Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese a handful at a time Stir constantly until the cheeses melt for a totally smooth oozy sauce Do not let it boil
Combine and Finish:
Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and stir well Fold in the BBQ chicken mixture and keep stirring so every bite gets plenty of cheesy saucy chicken
Final Seasoning and Serve:
Taste and add a bit more salt and pepper if desired Spoon into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and brightness if you like it
A close up of a bowl of macaroni and cheese. Save
A close up of a bowl of macaroni and cheese. | sweetbyemma.com

Storage tips

Storage tips

Cool any leftovers quickly and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop adding a splash of milk to keep things creamy

Ingredient substitutions

Swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack for a milder taste or use a dairy free milk and plant based cheese to make it lactose friendly You can also try pulled pork instead of chicken for a twist

Serving suggestions

Top with crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of extra cheese before baking under the broiler for a bubbly golden top Serve with a simple green salad to cut the richness or scoop leftovers into a thermos for a warming lunch

Cultural or historical context

Mac and cheese holds a classic place in American comfort food kitchens The BBQ twist is a nod to backyard gatherings in the South where smoky meats and creamy sides are a must at every table

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best?

Cooked, shredded chicken breast delivers a lean, protein-rich result. Rotisserie or leftover chicken are excellent for convenience.

→ Can different cheeses be used?

Cheddar and mozzarella melt smoothly, but feel free to mix in Monterey jack, gouda, or smoked cheeses for added flavor.

→ Is it possible to prep ahead?

Yes, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days—simply reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

→ How can I add extra flavor?

Try adding sautéed onions, crispy bacon, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top for a deeper smoky profile.

→ Can I make it gluten-free?

Swap the elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your BBQ sauce is certified gluten-free.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese with smoky chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and plenty of cheddar and mozzarella.

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Time
25 min
By: Emma

Category: Main Courses

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary Preferences: ~

What You'll Need

→ Main Ingredients

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 milk, low-fat preferred
07 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
08 1 teaspoon garlic powder
09 1 teaspoon onion powder
10 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 Salt, to taste
12 Pepper, to taste
13 Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

How to Make It

Step 01

Cook the elbow macaroni or pasta of choice 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 it through.

Step 03

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

Step 04

In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Stir in the shredded 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 well to combine. Fold in the BBQ chicken mixture, stirring until evenly mixed.

Step 06

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Additional Notes

  1. Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for a time-saving option.
  2. For enhanced flavor, add a handful of crispy bacon bits or sautéed onions.
  3. This dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Tools Required

  • Large skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Cooking spoon or spatula
  • Colander for draining pasta

Allergen Information

Double-check each ingredient for allergens and reach out to a healthcare professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains dairy (cheddar and mozzarella cheese)
  • Contains gluten (pasta)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These nutrition details are provided as a guide and are not a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Calories: 500
  • Fats: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Proteins: 40 g