Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience: bbq chicken mac and cheese! This incredibly satisfying dish combines creamy macaroni and cheese with smoky, tangy BBQ chicken for a meal that’s both hearty and flavorful. It’s remarkably easy to prepare, high in protein, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing gathering. Get ready to enjoy a new family favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
This recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen for so many wonderful reasons:
- Quick and Simple: With pre-cooked chicken, this recipe comes together fast, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Uses Leftover Chicken: It’s a fantastic way to repurpose rotisserie or previously cooked chicken into something exciting.
- High Protein, Customizable: Enjoy a protein-packed meal that you can easily adjust to fit your dietary needs.
- Incredibly Satisfying Flavor: The smoky barbecue tang perfectly complements the rich, cheesy pasta.
- Versatile for Occasions: Serve it casually for dinner or as a standout dish at your next potluck or party.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this amazing bbq chicken mac and cheese:
- 16 oz Pulled BBQ Chicken* (pre-cooked)
- 8 oz Banza Pasta Shells (or elbow macaroni)
- 1 C Pasta Water (reserved from cooking pasta)
- 1 C Milk (whole milk recommended)
- 10 oz Shredded Cheese Blend, divided (sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Extra BBQ sauce for drizzling
Notes & Substitutions
- For the Chicken: Use pre-cooked shredded BBQ chicken to save time. Rotisserie chicken, slow cooker chicken, or Instant Pot chicken all work wonderfully. For a leaner option, use chicken breast; thighs offer a richer flavor. If using plain chicken, season it generously with your favorite BBQ rub or sauce. Other meats like pulled beef also make a delicious alternative.
- For the Pasta: Classic elbow macaroni or small shells are ideal. Rotini also holds the sauce well. Opt for gluten-free or whole wheat pasta if preferred. Always reserve some starchy pasta water; it’s essential for creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
- For the Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides robust flavor, while Monterey Jack adds meltiness. Mozzarella can be included for stretch and mildness. Freshly shred cheese from a block for the best melt and texture. Low-fat or dairy-free cheeses are suitable substitutions.
- For the Milk: Whole milk ensures maximum creaminess. You can use 2% or skim milk for a lighter version. Dairy-free milks like almond or oat milk also work, though they may slightly alter the flavor.
- For the BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand of BBQ sauce. Whether you prefer sweet, smoky, or spicy varieties, it will infuse flavor into your chicken. Sugar-free options are available for dietary considerations.
- Seasoning: Salt and black pepper are crucial for balancing flavors. Enhance with a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder for extra depth.
Equipment
Gather these simple kitchen tools to make your delicious bbq chicken mac and cheese:
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- 9×13 inch baking dish or oven-safe skillet
- Colander for draining pasta
- Whisk or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your incredible bbq chicken mac and cheese:
- Preheat Oven & Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, usually 8-9 minutes, until al dente.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, carefully scoop out 1 cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside. This reserved water is key to achieving a silky sauce. Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly and return it to the empty pot.
- Create the Cheese Sauce: Place the pot with the drained pasta back on the stove over the lowest heat setting. Add the reserved 1 cup of pasta water and 1 cup of milk to the pasta. Stir well to combine. Gradually add 8 oz of the shredded cheese blend, a handful at a time, stirring constantly with a whisk or spatula until the cheese is fully melted and you have a smooth, creamy sauce. Don’t worry if the sauce seems slightly thin; it will thicken as it bakes. Season the mac and cheese with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add Chicken: Gently fold in the 16 oz of pre-cooked pulled BBQ chicken into the cheesy pasta mixture. Ensure the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the mac and cheese.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the entire bbq chicken mac and cheese mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Sprinkle the remaining 2 oz of shredded cheese evenly over the top. If desired, drizzle a little extra BBQ sauce over the top layer of cheese for an extra pop of flavor and color.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is beautifully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the bbq chicken mac and cheese rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it even creamier and easier to scoop. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Always shred cheese from a block rather than buying pre-shredded. Culinary experts often recommend grating cheese from a block for superior melting and texture, as pre-shredded varieties may contain anti-caking agents that hinder smoothness. Block cheese melts smoother and tastes fresher.
- Don’t Skip Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a secret weapon for a truly creamy sauce, helping emulsify the cheese and milk. The starch in pasta water acts as a natural emulsifier, a culinary technique that scientists have studied to create perfectly creamy pasta sauces.
- Adjust BBQ Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of BBQ sauce in the chicken to match your preference for tanginess and sweetness.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook your pasta to al dente. It will continue to cook slightly in the oven, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your cheese sauce before adding the chicken and baking. Adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings as needed.
Serving Suggestions, Storage & Reheating, and Variations
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bbq chicken mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette for balance. Consider pairing it with a side of homemade cornbread or a creamy coleslaw for a classic Southern touch. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also make an excellent accompaniment.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bbq chicken mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave until warm throughout. For best results, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until bubbly. Add a splash of milk or a tiny bit of water during reheating to help restore moisture and prevent dryness.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra fiery kick.
- Smoked Flavor: Use smoked cheddar cheese in your blend to enhance the smoky barbecue notes in the dish.
- Veggie Boost: Add some extra nutrition and color by stirring in frozen corn, diced bell peppers, or sautéed onions with the chicken.
- Crispy Topping: For added texture, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking.
- Bacon Lover’s: Crumble cooked, crispy bacon on top before serving for an irresistible salty crunch.
Nutrition Information
Please note that nutritional calculations are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. For detailed nutritional facts, always refer to the complete recipe card. This bbq chicken mac and cheese offers a good source of protein, making it a satisfying and energy-boosting meal.
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 C (about 7 oz) | 360 calories | 30g | 21g | 19g |
FAQ
- Can I use raw chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can. You’ll need to cook and shred it first before incorporating it into the mac and cheese. Ensure it’s fully cooked and seasoned.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the entire dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it come closer to room temperature before baking, and you might need a few extra minutes in the oven.
- Why is my cheese sauce grainy? Grainy sauce often happens from overheating the cheese or using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents. Add cheese gradually over low heat, stirring constantly, and always use freshly shredded block cheese for the best results in your bbq chicken mac and cheese.
- Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese? Yes, you can. Freeze individual portions in airtight containers or the entire dish unbaked. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Conclusion
There you have it: the ultimate bbq chicken mac and cheese! This recipe proves that comfort food can be both incredibly flavorful and wonderfully simple to make. With its creamy, cheesy pasta and tender, smoky barbecue chicken, it’s a dish that truly satisfies. We hope you feel confident and excited to try this recipe and bring a new level of deliciousness to your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Equipment
- Oven
- Pot
- Colander
- Baking dish
- Skillet
- Spatula/Spoon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 oz Pulled BBQ Chicken
- 8 oz Banza Pasta Shells
- 1 C Pasta Water
- 1 C Milk
- 10 oz Shredded Cheese Blend divided
- BBQ Sauce for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and boil salted water for pasta.
- Cook pasta for 8-9 minutes until tender. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and setting aside pasta.
- On low heat, return drained pasta to the pot with reserved pasta water and milk, stirring to combine.
- Gradually fold in 8 oz of shredded cheese until a smooth sauce forms, then season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to a baking dish, stir in pulled chicken, top with remaining 2 oz cheese, and optional BBQ sauce. Bake for 8-10 minutes until bubbly.