BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese three words that instantly make mouths water and hearts happy. I’m Sam from dishfoody.com, and I still remember the first time I tried combining smoky barbecue chicken with creamy, cheese-loaded macaroni. It was a rainy Tuesday evening, and I was tired of serving the same boring comfort foods. My family was craving something special, something that felt like a warm hug on a plate. That’s when this recipe was born, and it quickly became our most-requested dinner.

Are you tired of bland mac and cheese that lacks personality? Frustrated with dry, flavorless chicken that nobody gets excited about? This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe solves both problems in one incredible dish. You’ll get tender, juicy chicken coated in tangy barbecue sauce nestled in the creamiest, cheesiest macaroni you’ve ever tasted. The smoky-sweet flavors combined with that silky cheese sauce create pure magic in every bite.

At Dishfoody, I’ve spent years perfecting comfort food recipes that bring families together around the table. This particular recipe has been tested countless times in my kitchen, tweaked based on feedback from readers like you, and refined until it reached absolute perfection. Whether you’re cooking for picky kids, hosting a potluck, or just treating yourself to something special, this dish delivers every single time.

In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know: selecting the best chicken cuts, creating the ultimate cheese sauce, mastering the barbecue element, and bringing it all together into one spectacular meal. You’ll also discover pro tips for avoiding common mistakes, creative flavor variations to match your taste preferences, and answers to the most frequently asked questions about this recipe.

Why This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe Works

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hits all the right notes for comfort food lovers, and here’s exactly why it works so beautifully:

Uses affordable, everyday ingredients: You don’t need specialty items or expensive cuts. Basic chicken breast or thighs, standard pasta, common cheeses, and your favorite barbecue sauce come together to create something extraordinary. Most of these ingredients are probably already in your kitchen right now.

Ready in under 45 minutes: Despite tasting like you’ve slaved away for hours, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese comes together quickly. The chicken cooks while you prepare the cheese sauce, making this perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without the stress.

Crowd-pleasing versatility: This recipe works equally well for casual family dinners, potluck contributions, meal prep for the week, or even special occasions. Kids love the familiar mac and cheese base with exciting barbecue flavors, while adults appreciate the sophisticated combination of smoky, tangy, and creamy elements.

Customizable to your preferences: Whether you like your barbecue sauce sweet, spicy, or tangy, whether you prefer white meat or dark meat, and whether you want extra cheese or a lighter version, this recipe adapts beautifully. It’s a flexible foundation that welcomes your personal touches.

Comfort food that satisfies: There’s something deeply satisfying about the combination of tender chicken, silky cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese delivers that soul-warming comfort we all crave, especially after long days when you need food that feels like home.

Choosing the Right Chicken for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

The chicken you choose makes a significant difference in the final result of your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Let me guide you through the best options.

Best Chicken Cuts for This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Chicken breasts offer lean, mild-flavored meat that works beautifully in this recipe. They’re the most popular choice because they’re readily available, cook quickly, and provide generous pieces that look impressive in your final dish. The key with breasts is not to overcook them, or they’ll become dry and chewy. I recommend cutting them into bite-sized pieces before cooking to ensure even doneness and perfect integration with the mac and cheese.

Chicken thighs deliver more flavor and stay incredibly juicy even if you slightly overcook them. The higher fat content means they’re more forgiving for beginner cooks and they absorb barbecue sauce beautifully. Boneless, skinless thighs work best for this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese because they require minimal prep and cook evenly. If you want the absolute most flavorful version of this dish, thighs are your answer.

Rotisserie chicken provides the ultimate shortcut without sacrificing quality. When time is tight, grabbing a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken from your grocery store cuts your cooking time nearly in half. Simply shred the meat, toss it with barbecue sauce, and fold it into your mac and cheese. This option is perfect for last-minute dinners or when you’re cooking with kids and want to minimize active cooking time.

Buying Tips for Your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

When selecting fresh chicken at the store, look for pieces with a pink color and avoid any with gray or yellow tinges. The meat should feel firm to the touch and shouldn’t have any strong odors beyond a mild, fresh scent. Check the sell-by date and choose packages with the furthest date to ensure maximum freshness for your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Ask your butcher for evenly-sized pieces if you’re buying chicken breasts. This ensures they cook at the same rate, preventing some pieces from drying out while others finish cooking. Many butchers will also trim excess fat for you at no additional charge, saving you prep time at home.

For organic or free-range options, the chicken will typically cost more but offers superior flavor and texture. If your budget allows, this upgrade enhances your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese noticeably. However, standard chicken works perfectly fine, so don’t feel pressured to splurge if it’s not in your budget.

Chicken Substitutions for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Turkey breast works as a leaner alternative with similar texture to chicken breast. It pairs wonderfully with barbecue sauce and cheese, creating a slightly different but equally delicious version of this comfort food. Use the same cooking method and temperatures as you would for chicken.

Leftover grilled chicken from a previous meal can be repurposed brilliantly in this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Simply chop it up, warm it with barbecue sauce, and fold it into your cheese sauce and pasta. This is an excellent way to reduce food waste while creating an entirely new meal.

For vegetarian guests, substitute with chickpeas or cauliflower tossed in barbecue sauce. While not traditional, these options provide protein and substance while maintaining the smoky-sweet barbecue flavor profile that makes this dish so appealing.

Ingredients & Prep for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Proper preparation sets the foundation for exceptional BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Let’s break down everything you need.

Chicken Prep Essentials for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Start by patting your chicken completely dry with paper towels. Excess moisture prevents proper browning and creates steam instead of the beautiful caramelization we want. This simple step makes a dramatic difference in texture and flavor development.

Cut chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces, approximately one-inch cubes. Consistent sizing ensures even cooking throughout your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Pieces that are too large will remain undercooked in the center while smaller pieces overcook and become tough.

Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper before cooking. This foundational seasoning enhances the natural chicken flavor and helps it stand up to the bold barbecue sauce and rich cheese sauce. Don’t skip this step even though the chicken will be coated in sauce later.

If time allows, let seasoned chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking. Room temperature chicken cooks more evenly than cold chicken straight from the refrigerator, resulting in juicier, more tender meat in your final BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Barbecue Sauce and Seasonings for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Your choice of barbecue sauce defines the flavor profile of this dish. Sweet and smoky sauces create a family-friendly version with broad appeal. Tangy, vinegar-based sauces add brightness that cuts through the rich cheese sauce beautifully. Spicy barbecue sauces with chipotle or cayenne bring heat that spice lovers crave. Choose based on your family’s preferences or try different varieties to discover your favorite.

Additional seasonings to have ready include garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy subtle heat. These enhance both the chicken and the cheese sauce components of your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Consider making a simple dry rub with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Coat chicken pieces in this rub before cooking, then add barbecue sauce afterward. This layering of flavors creates complexity that elevates your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese from good to absolutely incredible.

Pantry Staples for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

For the mac and cheese component, gather elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta shape, butter, all-purpose flour for the roux, whole milk or half-and-half for creaminess, and a combination of sharp cheddar cheese for flavor and monterey jack or mozzarella for smooth melting.

Keep olive oil or vegetable oil on hand for cooking the chicken. A neutral oil with a high smoke point works best for achieving that beautiful golden-brown exterior on your chicken pieces.

Have chicken broth available to add moisture if your cheese sauce becomes too thick. A splash of broth thins the consistency without diluting the flavor like water would.

Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning at every stage. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is perfectly balanced.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese every single time.

Pre-Cooking Prep for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil for your pasta. Use approximately one tablespoon of salt per gallon of water. This seasons the pasta from within and is your only opportunity to flavor the noodles themselves before they’re combined into your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Meanwhile, pat your chicken pieces completely dry and season them generously with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you’re using. Arrange them on a plate in a single layer so they’re ready to go into the pan without crowding.

Grate your cheese while the water heats and chicken seasons. Freshly grated cheese melts infinitely better than pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. For the smoothest, creamiest BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, take the extra few minutes to grate your own cheese.

Measure out your barbecue sauce, milk, butter, and flour so everything is within reach once you start cooking. This French cooking technique called “mise en place” makes the actual cooking process smooth and stress-free.

Cooking Method for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Heat two tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding creates steam instead of the golden-brown sear we want for flavorful BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Cook chicken without moving it for 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms on the bottom. Flip pieces and cook another 3-4 minutes until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F when checked with an instant-read thermometer. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and toss with half of your barbecue sauce. Set aside while you prepare the mac and cheese.

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, usually 7-8 minutes for elbow macaroni. Al dente means the pasta still has a slight firmness when bitten and isn’t mushy. Drain the pasta but don’t rinse it. The starchy coating helps the cheese sauce cling to every piece.

In the same pot you cooked the pasta, melt four tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in four tablespoons of flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly. This roux forms the base of your cheese sauce and eliminates any raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in three cups of milk, adding it slowly to prevent lumps. Cook while whisking until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in three cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and one cup of shredded monterey jack, adding it in handfuls and stirring until completely melted between additions. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for your perfect BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Doneness Check for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

The chicken is safely cooked when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest piece registers 165°F. This is the USDA-recommended safe temperature for chicken. Don’t rely on visual cues alone, as chicken can look fully cooked on the outside while remaining underdone in the center.

The cheese sauce should coat the back of a spoon and slowly drip off rather than running off immediately. This consistency means it will cling beautifully to the pasta and create that luxurious, creamy texture that makes BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese so irresistible.

The pasta should be tender but still have a slight firmness when bitten. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy when combined with the hot cheese sauce and won’t hold its shape in your final dish.

Resting and Combining Your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Add the cooked pasta back to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat every piece. Fold in the barbecue chicken, distributing it evenly throughout. The residual heat will warm everything together and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Let the BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the sauce to thicken slightly and cling to the pasta better. The dish will also be at a more comfortable eating temperature rather than tongue-scorchingly hot.

If serving immediately, transfer to a large serving bowl and drizzle with remaining barbecue sauce. If baking for a crispy top, transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, sprinkle with additional cheese and breadcrumbs if desired, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Pro Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

These insider techniques will take your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese from delicious to absolutely unforgettable.

Avoiding Common Mistakes in BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Never add cheese to boiling sauce or the proteins will seize up and create a grainy, separated texture. Always remove the sauce from heat before stirring in cheese, allowing the residual heat to melt it gently and smoothly. This single tip prevents the most common cheese sauce disasters.

Don’t overcook your chicken. Dry, rubbery chicken ruins even the best BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Use an instant-read thermometer and remove chicken from heat the moment it reaches 165°F. Carryover cooking will bring it up a few more degrees as it rests, ensuring perfect juiciness without overcooking.

Avoid pre-shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce. The anti-caking agents added to pre-shredded cheese prevent proper melting and can leave your sauce grainy or separated. Block cheese takes only a few extra minutes to grate and makes an enormous difference in texture.

Don’t skimp on seasoning. Pasta needs salt in the cooking water, chicken needs seasoning before cooking, and the cheese sauce needs proper seasoning to taste fully developed. Under-seasoned BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese tastes flat and disappointing no matter how closely you follow the recipe otherwise.

Tool Recommendations for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

An instant-read thermometer is non-negotiable for perfectly cooked chicken every time. Digital thermometers that read in 2-3 seconds are worth the investment and eliminate all guesswork from cooking chicken for your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

A large, heavy-bottomed pot distributes heat evenly and prevents hot spots that can scorch your cheese sauce. Thin, lightweight pots create burnt spots and uneven cooking that compromise the quality of your final dish.

A box grater with multiple grating options makes quick work of cheese prep. The medium-sized holes create shreds that melt quickly and evenly into your sauce, while larger holes create longer shreds perfect for topping if you’re baking your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

A whisk is essential for creating lump-free cheese sauce. The wires break up any clumps in your roux and incorporate milk smoothly for a silky, professional-quality sauce.

Storage and Reheating BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Store leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The cheese sauce will thicken as it cools, but it reheats beautifully with a small adjustment.

When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore the creamy consistency. The pasta absorbs moisture as it sits, so this addition brings back that freshly-made texture. Heat gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese freezes well for up to three months. Portion it into individual freezer-safe containers for easy grab-and-go meals. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add extra milk during reheating as the freezing process can cause the sauce to separate slightly.

For best results when freezing, slightly undercook the pasta by one minute. This prevents it from becoming mushy when reheated after freezing. The texture will be nearly identical to freshly made BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Want more incredible comfort food inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest at https://www.pinterest.com/DishfoodyMagic/ where I share hundreds of drool-worthy recipes, cooking tips, and meal planning ideas that make home cooking easier and more delicious. You’ll find weekly recipe collections, kitchen hacks, and seasonal favorites that your whole family will love!

Flavor Variations for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

One of the best things about this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is how easily it adapts to different flavor profiles and dietary needs.

Spicy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Transform this into a fiery version by using spicy barbecue sauce and adding diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Stir a teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce for heat that permeates every bite. Top with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra spicy kick. This variation is perfect for heat seekers who want their BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with serious fire.

Add hot sauce to taste just before serving so each person can customize their heat level. Frank’s RedHot or your favorite hot sauce lets everyone enjoy this dish at their preferred spice level without making the entire batch too hot for sensitive palates.

Healthy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Options

Use whole wheat pasta or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein. These alternatives provide nutritional benefits without significantly changing the taste or texture of your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Chickpea pasta in particular adds extra protein that makes this dish even more satisfying.

Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the cheese to reduce calories and fat while adding protein and probiotics. The tanginess of Greek yogurt complements the barbecue sauce beautifully and creates a lighter version that’s still incredibly creamy and delicious.

Use sugar-free barbecue sauce to reduce the carbohydrate content for keto or low-carb diets. Many brands now offer excellent sugar-free options that maintain the smoky, tangy flavor profile without the added sugars. This swap makes BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese more diabetes-friendly and suitable for low-carb eating plans.

Global-Inspired BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Create a Korean-inspired version by using gochujang (Korean chili paste) mixed with a small amount of honey instead of traditional barbecue sauce. Top with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sesame oil for an Asian fusion take on BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that’s unique and incredibly flavorful.

Try a Mexican twist by adding taco seasoning to the chicken, using pepper jack cheese in the sauce, and mixing in black beans and corn. Top with crushed tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for a BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that tastes like your favorite Tex-Mex restaurant.

Go Mediterranean by using a tangy lemon-herb marinade on the chicken instead of barbecue sauce, adding sun-dried tomatoes and spinach to the mac and cheese, and finishing with feta cheese and fresh basil. This lighter, br

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Print Recipe

Ultra-creamy macaroni and cheese loaded with tender BBQ chicken, smoky spices, and melted cheese a bold, comforting twist on a classic favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

Author: ssam
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted.
3. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
4. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
5. Stir in BBQ sauce, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
7. Fold in cooked chicken and macaroni until fully coated.
8. Remove from heat, garnish with green onions, and serve hot.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Swap cheddar for smoked gouda for extra smoky flavor.
Add crispy bacon bits for an indulgent upgrade.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
Calories: 560
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: BBQ chicken mac and cheese, barbecue chicken pasta, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food