BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish combining smoky BBQ chicken with creamy, cheesy macaroni. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Author:Lisa
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:30-35 minutes
Total Time:50-55 minutes
Yield:6-8 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup milk
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook elbow macaroni until al dente in salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
In a medium saucepan, whisk milk and softened cream cheese over medium heat until smooth. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well. Fold in the BBQ chicken mixture.
Mix in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, reserving some for topping.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and reserved cheese. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality ingredients.
Experiment with different BBQ sauces to change the flavor.
This dish can be prepared a day ahead and baked before serving.
Customize the cheese blend with your favorites like gouda or pepper jack.
Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with roasted vegetables.
Swap BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce and add blue cheese for a Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese.
Add crispy bacon for a savory touch.
Use various pasta shapes like shells or penne.
Rotisserie chicken is a convenient substitute for cooked chicken.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.