Name: Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded cooked BBQ chicken; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups milk; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup crushed cornflakes; 2 tbsp olive oil

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🔥🍗 Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: The Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food You Need!

1. Introduction

If you’re craving an indulgent, hearty dish packed with bold flavors, BBQ chicken mac and cheese is your answer. This dish combines tender, smoky BBQ chicken with creamy cheese sauce layered over perfectly baked pasta. It’s the ultimate fusion of cheesy comfort food and smoky BBQ goodness, perfect for a family dinner or weekend treat. The rich, cheesy sauce coats every bite, while succulent BBQ chicken adds a savory punch. Let’s walk through how to elevate your everyday mac and cheese into this irresistible BBQ twist.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy dinner recipe that’s quick to prepare and great for weeknights.
Cheesy comfort food that satisfies any craving for indulgence.
Baked pasta for a crispy top layer and gooey within combined with smoky BBQ Chicken.
Creamy sauce that melts in your mouth and pairs perfectly with tender chicken.
Uses simple ingredients but delivers a flavor-packed punch.

3. Ingredient Notes

For this BBQ chicken mac and cheese recipe, quality ingredients make all the difference. Use high-quality cheese like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend for melting perfection. The smoky flavor in the BBQ chicken can be intensified by choosing a good-quality BBQ sauce or even making your own from scratch if you prefer a personal touch. Fresh chicken breasts or thighs work well; thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving during baking. Incorporate a bit of smoked paprika or chili powder into your cheese sauce for an extra smoky layer that complements the BBQ flavor perfectly.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

For making this dish seamlessly, invest in some handy tools:

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for quickly cooking and crisping chicken or reheating leftovers to maintain crispy edges.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Durable and nonstick, great for preparing the cheese sauce and boiling pasta.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer – Ideal for grilling the chicken for that smoky, charred flavor.

5. How to Make Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and a dash of smoked paprika. Grill or sear them in a hot skillet until charred and cooked through. For extra smoky flavor, use the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill. Once cooked, shred the chicken and toss with your favorite BBQ sauce. Keep aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook your pasta—elbow macaroni is classic here—in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, ensuring it doesn’t overcook. The pasta should be firm enough to hold its shape after baking, but tender enough to absorb the creamy cheese sauce.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then slowly pour in warmed milk or heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth. Add shredded cheese—cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend—and stir until fully melted. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder. For an extra cheesy flair, check out the high-protein cheesy sauce recipe.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Combine cooked pasta, shredded BBQ chicken, and the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly and transfer into a greased baking dish. Top with more shredded cheese for a gooey crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden bubbly and crispy on top. The aroma of melted cheese and smoky BBQ will fill your kitchen!

6. Expert Tips for Success

Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt and richer flavor.
If you prefer a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.
For a creamier sauce, add a splash of cream or sour cream before baking.
Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy after baking.

7. Variations & Substitutions

For a healthier twist, swap BBQ chicken for shredded turkey or tofu.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Vegan? Replace cheese with vegan cheese shreds and use plant-based BBQ sauce and nondairy milk.
Crunchy topping can be replaced with crushed tortilla chips or fried onions for added texture.

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. For a crispy top, broil for a few minutes after reheating.

9. FAQ

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the entire casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Bake fresh or reheat from chilled for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce or sprinkle chili flakes over the top before baking for extra heat.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure all sauces are certified gluten-free.

What’s the best cheese to use for maximum meltiness?

Cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack melt beautifully and provide a rich, gooey texture perfect for baked pasta dishes.

10. Conclusion

This BBQ chicken mac and cheese recipe is the perfect combination of smoky, cheesy, and comforting flavors in one indulgent dish. It’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this baked pasta is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the cheesy, smoky goodness!

Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese