Name: BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb cooked and shredded chicken breast; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup low-fat milk; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese brings together smoky barbecue flavor and creamy Macaroni and Cheese in one irresistible skillet meal. This dish blends tender shredded chicken, bold Barbecue Sauce, and two kinds of melted cheese for a satisfying, family-friendly dinner. If you love comfort food but still want a High Protein option, this recipe delivers every time. With juicy Chicken Breast, rich cheddar, and smooth mozzarella, this stovetop favorite comes together in just 25 minutes.

Story

I started making BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese on busy weeknights when I needed something quick but filling. Instead of serving plain macaroni, I decided to stir in shredded chicken and barbecue sauce. The result completely changed the game. The smoky sweetness from the sauce blends perfectly with the creamy cheese, creating bold flavor in every bite.

Since then, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese has become a staple in my kitchen. It satisfies comfort food cravings while still packing serious protein from lean chicken breast. Even better, this version cooks entirely on the stovetop, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy dinner.

Whenever I need a dependable crowd-pleaser, I turn to BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. It works for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even weekly meal prep. Plus, the flavor combination never feels boring. Every forkful tastes creamy, smoky, and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) cooked and shredded chicken breast
1 tablespoon olive oil
8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup low-fat milk
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

First, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Then drain the pasta and set it aside. Meanwhile, shred the cooked chicken breast if you have not already prepared it. Measure all seasonings and cheeses before you begin cooking, because this recipe moves quickly once heat is applied.

Cooking Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and warm it for about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the barbecue sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly so the sauce coats every piece of chicken.

In a separate saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat. Gradually stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and forms a smooth, creamy sauce. Next, add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated. Finally, fold in the BBQ chicken mixture and combine everything thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not overcook the pasta, because mushy macaroni will affect texture. Also, avoid high heat when melting the cheese. If you raise the temperature too much, the sauce can turn grainy instead of smooth. Additionally, always shred cheese from a block when possible, since pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may prevent silky melting.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

For deeper flavor, use a smoky barbecue sauce with a slight tang. You can also stir in crispy bacon bits or sautéed onions for extra richness. If you prefer a sharper bite, swap part of the cheddar for sharp white cheddar. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley to brighten the dish and add a fresh finish.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese hot straight from the skillet. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance. It also works beautifully as a main dish for potlucks or casual gatherings because it stays creamy and flavorful.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk before warming to restore creaminess. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring halfway through to maintain smooth texture.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese transforms classic comfort food into a protein-packed, flavor-loaded meal. The creamy cheese sauce, smoky barbecue flavor, and tender chicken create a satisfying dinner that feels both hearty and indulgent. Try this recipe once, and it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your weekly rotation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of chicken breast?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly in BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Simply shred the meat and stir it into the skillet as directed. This shortcut saves time and adds even more savory flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently with a small splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy and smooth.

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

You can freeze it, but the texture may slightly change after thawing. For best results, cool completely, store in a freezer-safe container, and reheat slowly while stirring to restore creaminess.