Go Back

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese layered with sweet and smoky BBQ chicken, baked until bubbly and golden for the perfect comforting meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Dinner, Main
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Mac and Cheese
  • 12 oz pasta (elbows or cavatappi)
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk or evaporated milk
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
  • 0.5 cup smoked gouda optional
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • salt and pepper to taste
BBQ Chicken
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 0.75 cup BBQ sauce sweet & smoky recommended
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
Topping
  • 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs optional
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 0.5 cup extra shredded cheese for topping

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Baking dish
  • Whisk
  • Skillet or saucepan

Method
 

  1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain.
  2. Melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour to make a roux.
  3. Whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.
  4. Stir in cheeses and seasonings until melted and creamy.
  5. Stir cooked pasta into the cheese sauce.
  6. Mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and smoked paprika.
  7. Layer half the mac and cheese, then BBQ chicken, then remaining mac and cheese in a baking dish.
  8. Top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
  9. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Notes

For extra smokiness, use smoked gouda and add a sprinkle of chipotle powder.