![To make this dish, gather these ingredients: - 8 oz elbow macaroni - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought) - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded - 1 cup milk - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping) - 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (for garnish) You can swap some ingredients for a different taste. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, use any pasta shape you like. For the chicken, rotisserie chicken works well if you want to save time. Change the barbecue sauce too! Use a sweet, smoky, or spicy sauce based on your taste. If you want a creamier dish, add more cream cheese or use sour cream instead. To cook this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, you will need: - A large pot for boiling pasta - A medium mixing bowl for the chicken and sauce - A large saucepan for the cheese sauce - A whisk or spatula for mixing - A greased 9x13 inch baking dish for baking - An oven to finish cooking and browning the top With these ingredients and tools, you can make a delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. For the full recipe, check the details above! To cook the elbow macaroni, start with a large pot. Fill it with 4-6 quarts of salted water. Bring this water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Cook it according to the package directions, usually 7-9 minutes until al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta well in a colander. Set it aside for later. For the BBQ chicken, take a medium mixing bowl. Add your shredded cooked chicken into this bowl. Pour in 1 cup of barbecue sauce. You can use homemade or store-bought sauce. Mix the chicken and sauce with a fork or spoon. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the cheese sauce. To create your cheese sauce, grab a large saucepan. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Next, pour in 1 cup of milk. Add 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese. Stir this mixture continuously until the cream cheese melts. This will create a creamy base. After that, gradually add 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt and the sauce is smooth. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Mix well to combine the flavors. Now, it’s time to combine everything. Fold the cooked elbow macaroni and BBQ chicken into the cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is mixed well. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. For the topping, take a small bowl and add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over them. Toss lightly to coat the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dish for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden brown and crispy top. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley before serving. For the full recipe, you can refer to the complete list above. Enjoy your BBQ chicken mac and cheese! To make great mac and cheese, start with the right pasta. Elbow macaroni works best because it holds the sauce well. Always salt your water before cooking pasta. This helps enhance the pasta's flavor. Cook it just until al dente. This keeps the pasta firm and prevents mushiness when baking. For a smooth cheese sauce, melt the cream cheese first. This creates a creamy base. Gradually add your shredded cheeses while stirring. This helps prevent clumping. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk. Stir until it reaches the perfect creamy texture. Serve your BBQ chicken mac and cheese in bright bowls. This makes the dish look inviting. Drizzle extra barbecue sauce on top for added flavor and fun. For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh parsley on each serving. Pair it with coleslaw for a crisp contrast. You can also use the [Full Recipe] as a guide for more tips. {{image_4}} You can make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese even better with add-ins. Try using vegetables like: - Broccoli - Spinach - Peas - Bell peppers Adding these not only boosts flavor but also nutrition. Mix in some spices like cayenne or paprika for extra heat. A sprinkle of smoked paprika gives a nice touch! Cheese is the star of this dish. You can change the flavor by using different cheeses. Here are some great options: - Pepper jack for a spicy kick - Gouda for a smoky taste - Fontina for a creamy texture Mixing cheeses creates a rich and tasty sauce. Experiment to find your favorite combo! Want to switch things up? Try a spicy version! Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the chicken mix. For a vegetarian twist, use black beans and corn instead of chicken. This keeps it hearty and full of flavor. You can also make it healthier by using whole grain pasta. The options are endless! Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas on making this dish your own. To keep your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure the dish has cooled down before sealing. This helps prevent moisture build-up. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them in the oven for the best taste. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20 minutes or until it’s hot throughout. You can also microwave it, but it may not be as creamy. If you want to freeze your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, it’s best to do so before baking. After mixing the ingredients, transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave space for expansion. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, bake as directed in the Full Recipe. Enjoy your delicious dish anytime! You can use sour cream or Greek yogurt. Both options give a creamy texture. Cream cheese adds richness, but these substitutes work well too. If you want a dairy-free option, try cashew cream or silken tofu. Both can blend smoothly into the cheese sauce. Yes, you can! Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you are ready to bake, preheat your oven. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Try serving it with a fresh green salad. Coleslaw pairs well too, adding a crunchy texture. For a fun twist, serve garlic bread or corn on the cob. These sides balance the creamy dish and add variety to your meal. BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a modern dish. It likely comes from the blend of Southern BBQ and classic mac and cheese. Many cooks experimented with flavors, creating this tasty twist. It became popular in homes and restaurants alike. You can use whole grain pasta for more fiber. Swap the cheese for lower-fat options or use less cheese overall. Adding veggies like spinach or broccoli boosts nutrition. You can also use grilled chicken instead of fried for a healthier protein. In this blog post, we explored the fun and tasty world of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. We detailed ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for great results. You learned how to customize this dish with different cheeses and add-ins. We also covered storage and reheating for leftovers. Now you have all the tools to make a delicious meal. Enjoy experimenting, and remember, the best dish comes from your creativity in the kitchen!](https://recipesstation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/91578176-28ca-4535-b1a4-3ef1807a2b61-768x768.webp)
If you’re looking for a dish that brings the family together, BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect choice. This creamy, cheesy delight mixes classic comfort food with sweet, smoky BBQ flavors. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this meal satisfies everyone’s taste buds. Keep reading to discover the simple ingredients, easy steps, and tips that make this dish a family favorite. You won’t want to miss it!
Ingredients
Complete Ingredient List for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
To make this dish, gather these ingredients:
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
Substitutions for Key Ingredients
You can swap some ingredients for a different taste. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, use any pasta shape you like. For the chicken, rotisserie chicken works well if you want to save time. Change the barbecue sauce too! Use a sweet, smoky, or spicy sauce based on your taste. If you want a creamier dish, add more cream cheese or use sour cream instead.
Cooking Tools and Equipment Needed
To cook this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, you will need:
– A large pot for boiling pasta
– A medium mixing bowl for the chicken and sauce
– A large saucepan for the cheese sauce
– A whisk or spatula for mixing
– A greased 9×13 inch baking dish for baking
– An oven to finish cooking and browning the top
With these ingredients and tools, you can make a delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. For the full recipe, check the details above!
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Cook Elbow Macaroni
To cook the elbow macaroni, start with a large pot. Fill it with 4-6 quarts of salted water. Bring this water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Cook it according to the package directions, usually 7-9 minutes until al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta well in a colander. Set it aside for later.
Preparing the BBQ Chicken
For the BBQ chicken, take a medium mixing bowl. Add your shredded cooked chicken into this bowl. Pour in 1 cup of barbecue sauce. You can use homemade or store-bought sauce. Mix the chicken and sauce with a fork or spoon. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
Making the Cheese Sauce
To create your cheese sauce, grab a large saucepan. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Next, pour in 1 cup of milk. Add 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese. Stir this mixture continuously until the cream cheese melts. This will create a creamy base. After that, gradually add 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt and the sauce is smooth. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Mix well to combine the flavors.
Now, it’s time to combine everything. Fold the cooked elbow macaroni and BBQ chicken into the cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is mixed well. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
For the topping, take a small bowl and add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over them. Toss lightly to coat the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dish for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden brown and crispy top. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley before serving.
For the full recipe, you can refer to the complete list above. Enjoy your BBQ chicken mac and cheese!
Tips & Tricks
Essential Cooking Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese
To make great mac and cheese, start with the right pasta. Elbow macaroni works best because it holds the sauce well. Always salt your water before cooking pasta. This helps enhance the pasta’s flavor. Cook it just until al dente. This keeps the pasta firm and prevents mushiness when baking.
How to Achieve the Best Cheese Sauce Consistency
For a smooth cheese sauce, melt the cream cheese first. This creates a creamy base. Gradually add your shredded cheeses while stirring. This helps prevent clumping. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk. Stir until it reaches the perfect creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips
Serve your BBQ chicken mac and cheese in bright bowls. This makes the dish look inviting. Drizzle extra barbecue sauce on top for added flavor and fun. For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh parsley on each serving. Pair it with coleslaw for a crisp contrast. You can also use the [Full Recipe] as a guide for more tips.
Variations
Add-Ins and Customizations
You can make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese even better with add-ins. Try using vegetables like:
– Broccoli
– Spinach
– Peas
– Bell peppers
Adding these not only boosts flavor but also nutrition. Mix in some spices like cayenne or paprika for extra heat. A sprinkle of smoked paprika gives a nice touch!
Alternative Cheeses for Unique Flavors
Cheese is the star of this dish. You can change the flavor by using different cheeses. Here are some great options:
– Pepper jack for a spicy kick
– Gouda for a smoky taste
– Fontina for a creamy texture
Mixing cheeses creates a rich and tasty sauce. Experiment to find your favorite combo!
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese with a Twist
Want to switch things up? Try a spicy version! Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the chicken mix. For a vegetarian twist, use black beans and corn instead of chicken. This keeps it hearty and full of flavor.
You can also make it healthier by using whole grain pasta. The options are endless! Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas on making this dish your own.
Storage Info
How to Properly Store Leftovers
To keep your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure the dish has cooled down before sealing. This helps prevent moisture build-up. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option.
Reheating Instructions for Best Results
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them in the oven for the best taste. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20 minutes or until it’s hot throughout. You can also microwave it, but it may not be as creamy.
Freezing BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
If you want to freeze your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, it’s best to do so before baking. After mixing the ingredients, transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave space for expansion. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, bake as directed in the Full Recipe. Enjoy your delicious dish anytime!
FAQs
What can I substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?
You can use sour cream or Greek yogurt. Both options give a creamy texture. Cream cheese adds richness, but these substitutes work well too. If you want a dairy-free option, try cashew cream or silken tofu. Both can blend smoothly into the cheese sauce.
Can I make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you are ready to bake, preheat your oven. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What are some good side dishes to serve with BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Try serving it with a fresh green salad. Coleslaw pairs well too, adding a crunchy texture. For a fun twist, serve garlic bread or corn on the cob. These sides balance the creamy dish and add variety to your meal.
Where did BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese originate?
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a modern dish. It likely comes from the blend of Southern BBQ and classic mac and cheese. Many cooks experimented with flavors, creating this tasty twist. It became popular in homes and restaurants alike.
How to make this dish healthier?
You can use whole grain pasta for more fiber. Swap the cheese for lower-fat options or use less cheese overall. Adding veggies like spinach or broccoli boosts nutrition. You can also use grilled chicken instead of fried for a healthier protein.
In this blog post, we explored the fun and tasty world of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. We detailed ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for great results. You learned how to customize this dish with different cheeses and add-ins. We also covered storage and reheating for leftovers.
Now you have all the tools to make a delicious meal. Enjoy experimenting, and remember, the best dish comes from your creativity in the kitchen!
![To make this dish, gather these ingredients: - 8 oz elbow macaroni - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought) - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded - 1 cup milk - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping) - 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (for garnish) You can swap some ingredients for a different taste. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, use any pasta shape you like. For the chicken, rotisserie chicken works well if you want to save time. Change the barbecue sauce too! Use a sweet, smoky, or spicy sauce based on your taste. If you want a creamier dish, add more cream cheese or use sour cream instead. To cook this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, you will need: - A large pot for boiling pasta - A medium mixing bowl for the chicken and sauce - A large saucepan for the cheese sauce - A whisk or spatula for mixing - A greased 9x13 inch baking dish for baking - An oven to finish cooking and browning the top With these ingredients and tools, you can make a delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. For the full recipe, check the details above! To cook the elbow macaroni, start with a large pot. Fill it with 4-6 quarts of salted water. Bring this water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Cook it according to the package directions, usually 7-9 minutes until al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta well in a colander. Set it aside for later. For the BBQ chicken, take a medium mixing bowl. Add your shredded cooked chicken into this bowl. Pour in 1 cup of barbecue sauce. You can use homemade or store-bought sauce. Mix the chicken and sauce with a fork or spoon. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the cheese sauce. To create your cheese sauce, grab a large saucepan. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Next, pour in 1 cup of milk. Add 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese. Stir this mixture continuously until the cream cheese melts. This will create a creamy base. After that, gradually add 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt and the sauce is smooth. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Mix well to combine the flavors. Now, it’s time to combine everything. Fold the cooked elbow macaroni and BBQ chicken into the cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is mixed well. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. For the topping, take a small bowl and add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over them. Toss lightly to coat the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dish for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden brown and crispy top. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley before serving. For the full recipe, you can refer to the complete list above. Enjoy your BBQ chicken mac and cheese! To make great mac and cheese, start with the right pasta. Elbow macaroni works best because it holds the sauce well. Always salt your water before cooking pasta. This helps enhance the pasta's flavor. Cook it just until al dente. This keeps the pasta firm and prevents mushiness when baking. For a smooth cheese sauce, melt the cream cheese first. This creates a creamy base. Gradually add your shredded cheeses while stirring. This helps prevent clumping. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk. Stir until it reaches the perfect creamy texture. Serve your BBQ chicken mac and cheese in bright bowls. This makes the dish look inviting. Drizzle extra barbecue sauce on top for added flavor and fun. For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh parsley on each serving. Pair it with coleslaw for a crisp contrast. You can also use the [Full Recipe] as a guide for more tips. {{image_4}} You can make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese even better with add-ins. Try using vegetables like: - Broccoli - Spinach - Peas - Bell peppers Adding these not only boosts flavor but also nutrition. Mix in some spices like cayenne or paprika for extra heat. A sprinkle of smoked paprika gives a nice touch! Cheese is the star of this dish. You can change the flavor by using different cheeses. Here are some great options: - Pepper jack for a spicy kick - Gouda for a smoky taste - Fontina for a creamy texture Mixing cheeses creates a rich and tasty sauce. Experiment to find your favorite combo! Want to switch things up? Try a spicy version! Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the chicken mix. For a vegetarian twist, use black beans and corn instead of chicken. This keeps it hearty and full of flavor. You can also make it healthier by using whole grain pasta. The options are endless! Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas on making this dish your own. To keep your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure the dish has cooled down before sealing. This helps prevent moisture build-up. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them in the oven for the best taste. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20 minutes or until it’s hot throughout. You can also microwave it, but it may not be as creamy. If you want to freeze your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, it’s best to do so before baking. After mixing the ingredients, transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave space for expansion. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, bake as directed in the Full Recipe. Enjoy your delicious dish anytime! You can use sour cream or Greek yogurt. Both options give a creamy texture. Cream cheese adds richness, but these substitutes work well too. If you want a dairy-free option, try cashew cream or silken tofu. Both can blend smoothly into the cheese sauce. Yes, you can! Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you are ready to bake, preheat your oven. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Try serving it with a fresh green salad. Coleslaw pairs well too, adding a crunchy texture. For a fun twist, serve garlic bread or corn on the cob. These sides balance the creamy dish and add variety to your meal. BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a modern dish. It likely comes from the blend of Southern BBQ and classic mac and cheese. Many cooks experimented with flavors, creating this tasty twist. It became popular in homes and restaurants alike. You can use whole grain pasta for more fiber. Swap the cheese for lower-fat options or use less cheese overall. Adding veggies like spinach or broccoli boosts nutrition. You can also use grilled chicken instead of fried for a healthier protein. In this blog post, we explored the fun and tasty world of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. We detailed ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for great results. You learned how to customize this dish with different cheeses and add-ins. We also covered storage and reheating for leftovers. Now you have all the tools to make a delicious meal. Enjoy experimenting, and remember, the best dish comes from your creativity in the kitchen!](https://recipesstation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/91578176-28ca-4535-b1a4-3ef1807a2b61-250x250.webp)
