BBQ chicken mac and cheese is a recipe that effortlessly combines comfort food favorites. Picture creamy pasta enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, mingled with the smoky notes of barbecue chicken. Each bite delivers a tantalizing blend of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. This dish embodies ease and warmth, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings with family and friends.

Pin this for later!

I’ll never forget the first time I made BBQ chicken mac and cheese for a potluck. The appealing combination of textures and the aromatic blend of cheeses drew everyone in. You’ll find that it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that comes together effortlessly, whether you’re rushing after work or enjoying a leisurely Sunday. The blend of delicious cheeses with tender chicken and the zesty kick of barbecue sauce creates an experience that feels indulgent yet accessible. I can’t wait for you to try this amazing recipe!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: It comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it easy to whip up on busy nights.
Irresistible Flavor: Creamy, cheesy goodness combined with smoky BBQ flavors will leave your taste buds buzzing with happiness.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden, bubbling top and colorful garnishes make it not only delicious but visually impressive.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or even a fun movie night in.
Diet-Friendly Options: This dish can be adapted for different dietary needs, so everyone can enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 package large elbow pasta (16 ounces): This classic pasta shape holds the cheese sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
½ cup butter (1 stick): Adds creaminess to the cheese sauce and helps to build its rich flavor.
½ cup flour: Always use all-purpose flour for making the roux, which thickens the sauce.
3 ¾ cups whole milk: Whole milk creates a creamy texture for the sauce—feel free to substitute low-fat milk if you’re aiming to lighten it up slightly.
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: For a subtle kick that balances the richness; adjust to your taste.
¼ teaspoon ground mustard: Enhances the flavor profile of the cheese sauce without overpowering it.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: We all love that garlic punch, right? It complements both the cheese and BBQ chicken beautifully.
Pinch ground nutmeg (optional): A small pinch contrasts well with the cheese’s richness; use sparingly.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings for elevating every layer of flavor.
2 cups cheddar cheese (freshly shredded): This classic cheese provides a strong, savory cheese flavor.
2 cups gouda cheese (freshly shredded): Gouda will add a nice creaminess; try smoked gouda for an extra layer of flavor.
2 cups cooked or rotisserie chicken (cubed or shredded): Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.
½ cup barbecue sauce: Choose your favorite brand; a tangy-sweet sauce balances beautifully against the creamy cheese.
Fresh parsley (roughly chopped, for garnish): Adds color and a fresh note to the dish when sprinkled on top.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Prepare the Pasta: Start by cooking 1 package of large elbow pasta (16 ounces) according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
Make the Roux: In a large pot over medium heat, melt ½ cup of butter (1 stick). Add ½ cup of flour, stirring constantly until the mixture turns lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
Add the Milk: Carefully pour in 3 ¾ cups of whole milk, stirring frequently. Bring this mixture to a boil while continuing to stir until it thickens, usually about 5 minutes.
Season It Up: Lower the heat and add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, ¼ teaspoon of ground mustard, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of ground nutmeg (if using). Blend well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
Incorporate the Cheeses: Stir in 2 cups of freshly shredded cheddar cheese and 2 cups of freshly shredded gouda cheese until completely melted and smooth.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta, 2 cups of cooked or rotisserie chicken (cubed or shredded), and ½ cup of barbecue sauce. Heat on low until everything is well combined and warmed through.
Serve and Garnish: Transfer your BBQ chicken mac and cheese to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a drizzle of barbecue sauce if desired for an extra touch. Enjoy your feast!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover BBQ chicken mac and cheese, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’re thinking of freezing it, portion it out in freezer-friendly containers and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to keep the texture nice and creamy. You might want to stir in a splash of milk to keep it from drying out.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid clumping by whisking the flour and milk continuously while cooking the roux.
For an extra creamy texture, let the cheese sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before adding it to the hot mixture.
If the mac and cheese becomes too thick, just add a bit more warm milk to loosen it up.
Don’t skip the fresh parsley! It brightens the dish and adds lovely color.
Feel free to spice things up further with jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce if you like more heat.

BBQ chicken mac and cheese combines the best of both worlds, offering a delightful supper that ticks all the boxes! This dish is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. I encourage you to make it yours by experimenting with different cheeses, chicken types, or even veggies to customize it for your tastes.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While large elbow pasta is traditional, feel free to swap it out for any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just keep an eye on cooking time as it might vary.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, BBQ chicken mac and cheese is perfect for meal prep! Just portion it out in airtight containers, and you can enjoy it throughout the week. Just remember to store it properly to maintain flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Certainly! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just reheat in the oven until hot throughout when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with BBQ chicken mac and cheese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli to balance the richness. You could also serve it alongside some garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food meal.

More Dinner Recipes

👉 If you make my BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe, please leave a comment and a star rating — it really helps others discover the recipe.
Follow me on Pinterest for more easy recipes.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Storing & Reheating

Chef’s Helpful Tips