Go Back
+ servings
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: Comfort Food That Delivers Joy

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a hearty dish that combines tender chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and a creamy cheese blend, ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitute with rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Macaroni Feel free to substitute with any short pasta like penne or rotini.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Using sharp cheddar will elevate the taste.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Consider using provolone for a different twist.
  • 2 cups Milk Substitute with cream for a richer texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Olive oil is a great alternative for a lighter version.
  • 2 tablespoons Flour Use cornstarch as a gluten-free alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • to taste Salt Always adjust to your liking.
  • to taste Pepper Always adjust to your liking.
For the Flavor
  • ½ cup BBQ Sauce Choose your favorite variety to personalize your dish.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook in the skillet for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Shred the chicken using two forks.
  2. While the chicken is cooking, boil a large pot of salted water. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, around 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, cooking for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If too thick, add a splash of milk.
  5. Incorporate the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken into the cheese sauce, followed by the BBQ sauce. Stir until well coated.
  6. Transfer to serving plates or bowls. Optionally drizzle with additional BBQ sauce and garnish with chopped herbs. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

You can prep chicken and pasta ahead of time and store separately until ready to combine. Mix cheese options for unique flavors.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!