BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of cheese melting into pasta, especially when it’s infused with the deep, smoky aroma of barbecue sauce. This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese has always been more than just a meal in my house—it’s a hug in a bowl, a warm memory of Sunday suppers with family, and the go-to dish for rainy days and casual gatherings.

It all started one summer evening at a family cookout. We had plenty of grilled barbecue chicken left over and the kids were craving mac and cheese. In a moment of delicious improvisation, we combined the two. The result? An instant classic that quickly earned a spot in our regular rotation. The creamy cheddar-gouda base paired with tender, smoky chicken struck the perfect balance—rich and bold, yet familiar and homey.

This dish has since evolved, making appearances at potlucks, game days, and cozy winter nights. Every bite feels like a small celebration of comfort food, blending the nostalgia of childhood mac and cheese with the depth of southern-style barbecue.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy: A three-cheese blend makes every bite decadently cheesy.
• Smoky BBQ flavor: Balanced with tender chicken for the perfect savory bite.
• Crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike—great for parties or weeknight dinners.
• Easy to customize: Use your favorite cheeses, add veggies, or spice it up.
• Meal prep-friendly: Make it ahead and reheat—it’s just as good the next day.

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INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ cup green onions, finely chopped
• ½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup gouda cheese, shredded
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

HOW TO MAKE BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

STEP‑BY‑STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by combining your cooked, shredded chicken with barbecue sauce and garlic powder in a bowl. Stir until each piece is well coated. This step locks in that deep, smoky flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente. Don’t overcook—the pasta will absorb more liquid later. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly to make a smooth roux. After about 2 minutes, add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes velvety.

Reduce the heat and stir in the cheeses—cheddar first for boldness, gouda for creaminess, and mozzarella for that irresistible melt. Let the cheese melt completely into a glossy, thick sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Gently stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, coating every noodle. Fold in the BBQ chicken mixture, making sure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake (Optional but Recommended)
Pour the mac and cheese into a buttered casserole dish and top with a little extra cheese. Bake at 200 °C (400 °F) for 10–15 minutes until bubbling and lightly golden on top. This adds a deliciously crispy edge and takes the dish from good to unforgettable.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh green onions before serving. The freshness balances the richness and adds a nice pop of color.

HELPFUL TIPS

• Always use freshly shredded cheese—it melts better and prevents graininess.
• Choose a good-quality barbecue sauce—something smoky and slightly sweet works well.
• Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra texture and heat.
• Leftover roasted or grilled chicken is ideal—just shred it finely.

DETAILS

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes (includes baking)
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop + Baked
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Non-vegetarian

NOTES

If you’re short on time, skip the baking step and enjoy it straight from the pot—it’s just as creamy and delicious. For a smoky twist, try adding a pinch of chipotle powder or using smoked gouda.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (approximate per serving)

• Calories: 650 kcal
• Protein: 35 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fat: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 6 g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely. Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese can add unique flavors.

What kind of chicken works best?
Rotisserie, grilled, or even leftover roasted chicken works perfectly. Just shred or dice it finely.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or GF flour.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Cool completely and store in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

Related Recipes

If you loved this, you’ll definitely enjoy:

• Fresh & Flavorful Pasta Salad
• Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
• Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
• The Story Behind Chicken Fajita Rice Casserole

CONCLUSION

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is one of those soul-satisfying meals that always hits the spot. Whether you’re craving something cozy for dinner, feeding a crowd, or reinventing leftovers, this recipe delivers rich flavor and comfort in every bite. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a favorite at the table. Give it a try—and don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple in your kitchen too.