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BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

This BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mash-up! Creamy, cheesy macaroni is mixed with tender shredded chicken coated in smoky barbecue sauce, then baked until golden and bubbly. It’s an easy homemade mac and cheese recipe with bold BBQ flavor that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and lazy weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley for garnish
  • Optional Toppings
  • Extra shredded cheese
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs
  • Sliced jalapeños

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
  2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until fully coated.
  4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
  6. Add cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  7. Add cooked pasta and BBQ chicken to the cheese sauce. Mix well.
  8. Pour into prepared baking dish. Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs if desired.
  9. Bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  10. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.
Add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers.
For extra crispiness, broil for 2 minutes at the end.
You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.