If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food mashup, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is going to steal your heart (and your dinner table). Picture this: creamy, ultra-cheesy macaroni loaded with tender shredded chicken and a pop of tangy barbecue sauce—all finished with a crisp, golden topping. This dreamy casserole brings together that smoky-sweet flavor you crave from BBQ and the all-out coziness of homemade mac and cheese. The best part? It’s easy enough for a weeknight, but impressive enough to serve friends and family. Once you taste it, you’ll be hooked!

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is how every ingredient plays a role: from melty cheeses to smoky chicken, each part helps build the dish’s irresistible flavor and texture. Keep these kitchen staples on hand, and you can whip this up whenever a comfort food craving hits.

Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but shell or rotini hold the cheese sauce beautifully too.
Cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken makes this super quick, but any leftover or poached chicken works just as well for juicy, tender bites.
Barbecue sauce: Choose your favorite brand—smoky, spicy, or sweet, this is what gives the dish its signature BBQ kick.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is a must for mac and cheese—its tang balances the sauce and melts perfectly.
Monterey Jack cheese: This cheese adds a creamy, rich melt and a gentle flavor that keeps things smooth.
Milk: Whole milk makes the sauce luscious; you can use 2% in a pinch.
Butter: From starting your roux to brushing the topping, butter adds that classic richness.
Flour: A small amount helps thicken your sauce so it hugs every noodle.
Salt and pepper: Essential for making all the flavors pop—taste and adjust as you go.
Paprika (optional): A sprinkle gives mild spiciness and adds a beautiful color to the top.
Bread crumbs: Panko or regular creates that crave-worthy crunchy top that makes every bite exciting.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your macaroni and cook it until just al dente—the pasta will finish cooking in the oven, so you want it slightly firmer than usual. Drain and set aside; don’t rinse, as you want the noodles’ starch to help the sauce cling.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute until you have a smooth, pale roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps, and let it simmer until slightly thickened. Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack, saving a handful of each for topping. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika if you like a hint of smoke.

Step 3: Mix in Chicken and BBQ Sauce

Fold your shredded chicken into the cheesy sauce, then swirl in the BBQ sauce until the chicken is coated and the sauce turns glossy, swirled, and irresistibly aromatic. It’s okay if the BBQ sauce isn’t fully blended—ribbons of flavor are delicious!

Step 4: Combine and Transfer to Baking Dish

Stir the cooked pasta into your BBQ chicken cheese sauce, making sure every noodle is smothered and every piece of chicken gets a cheesy hug. Pour everything into a greased casserole dish, then sprinkle the reserved cheese all over the top for extra gooeyness.

Step 5: Add Crunchy Topping and Bake

In a small bowl, toss bread crumbs with a couple teaspoons of melted butter and a touch more paprika if you love smoky flavor. Sprinkle generously across the casserole. Slide your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest a few minutes before you dive in—trust me, it’s worth the wait!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Brighten things up with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving. Some folks love a handful of pickled jalapeños or a smattering of crispy fried onions for a special touch. The green and gold make your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese look as tempting as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This main dish is so rich and satisfying, simple sides are perfect companions. A crisp coleslaw or tangy chopped salad helps balance the creaminess. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus add a pop of color and nutrition, while cornbread is a crowd-pleaser if you want to go full Southern-style.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeding friends, try serving BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins for a restaurant-style vibe. For potlucks, bake and transport in a sturdy foil pan. You can even spoon leftovers into slider buns for a BBQ mac sandwich, guaranteed to be the hit of any lunch or picnic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese completely before covering with foil or transferring to airtight containers. It’ll stay delicious in the fridge for up to 4 days. The pasta and sauce keep their texture surprisingly well, so leftovers make excellent desk lunches!

Freezing

This dish freezes like a dream. Assemble right up to the topping but don’t bake, then double-wrap with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few minutes if needed to heat through. For individual portions, cut and freeze squares for grab-and-go meals.

Reheating

To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot and melty, about 20 minutes. For a quick lunch, microwave portions on medium power with a splash of milk to keep it creamy. Top with fresh herbs to revive that straight-from-the-oven flavor!

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Pulled pork, leftover brisket, or even plant-based “chicken” shreds work beautifully in BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Let your taste buds and your fridge contents inspire you.

What’s the best way to shred chicken quickly?

If time’s tight, use two forks to shred rotisserie or poached chicken while it’s still warm. For a shortcut, some people pulse cooked chicken breasts in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for foolproof shreds.

Can I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese gluten-free?

Yes, this dish adapts easily: swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Be sure your barbecue sauce and bread crumbs are certified gluten-free, too.

Which cheese melts best for mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but blending in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Colby creates a super gooey, creamy base. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as anti-caking agents can make your sauce grainy.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Definitely! Assemble your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese earlier in the day, cover, and refrigerate. When it’s party time, sprinkle on the topping and bake fresh for that perfect bubbly finish.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is pure joy in a pan—smoky, creamy, cheesy, and brimming with comfort. Whether you’re feeding a family, sharing at a potluck, or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish is bound to become a repeat favorite. Give it a try and taste for yourself why it’s such a hit!