BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
A Comfort Food Classic with a Smoky Twist
Smoky, cheesy, creamy, and loaded with tender shredded chicken, this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese takes your classic mac to a whole new level. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, potluck, or weekend indulgence, this recipe blends the richness of cheddar cheese with the bold flavor of BBQ sauce for a mouthwatering comfort food combo.
đź“ť Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (preferably whole)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (grilled or rotisserie)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, jalapeños
🍳 Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. - Make the cheese sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted. - Add chicken and BBQ:
Stir in the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Combine:
Add the cooked pasta and stir until evenly coated in the cheesy, smoky sauce. - Bake (optional):
Transfer to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes for an extra golden top.
đź’ˇ Tips & Variations
- Want more crunch? Add crushed Ritz crackers or panko on top before baking.
- Swap cheddar for a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- Add cooked bacon or sautéed onions for more texture and flavor.
